71 pages • 2 hours read
Paper Towns
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
305
Novel • Fiction
Orlando, Florida • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
850L
Super Short Summary
Paper Towns by John Green is a coming-of-age story about Quentin Jacobsen, a reserved high school senior who embarks on a quest to find his enigmatic childhood friend, Margo Roth Spiegelman, after she mysteriously disappears. Alongside his friends Radar, Ben, and Lacey, Quentin follows a series of cryptic clues left by Margo, leading him through a journey of adventure, self-discovery, and the complexities of human connection. The book touches on sensitive topics related to mental health challenges among teenagers.
Mysterious
Adventurous
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
1,438,237 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Paper Towns by John Green offers a compelling mix of mystery and coming-of-age themes. Readers praise its witty dialogue, well-drawn characters, and insightful exploration of identity and friendship. However, some critique the plot's pacing and the protagonist's perceived selfishness. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read for young adults.
Who Should Read Paper Towns?
Ideal for readers who cherish coming-of-age tales, Paper Towns by John Green suits fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Looking for Alaska. It captivates with its blend of mystery, romance, and self-discovery, appealing to teens and young adults who enjoy introspective and adventurous narratives.
1,438,237 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Margo Roth Spiegelman
Margo Roth Spiegelman
Quentin's adventurous and enigmatic next-door neighbor, known for her elaborate escapades and habit of leaving clues when she disappears.
Ben Starling
Ben Starling
Quentin’s comedic and loyal best friend, who becomes more socially involved after dating Lacey, Margo’s best friend.
Radar
Radar
Quentin’s other best friend, known for his intelligence and involvement in maintaining an extensive reference site, as well as being a calming presence in the group.
Lacey Pemberton
Lacey Pemberton
Margo’s best friend who becomes romantically involved with Ben and aids in the search for Margo, while dealing with her own challenges in the high school social scene.
305
Novel • Fiction
Orlando, Florida • 2000s
2008
YA
14-18 years
850L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.