Hazel's Relationship with Her Parents

Hazel's evolving bond with her mother and father, from dependence to independence, and their mutual efforts to prepare for her eventual death.

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The Overprotective Mother

The Overprotective Mother Constant Presence Hazel's mother is always hovering—driving her to appointments, waiting outside classes, sleeping in the same room. Hazel sometimes feels smothered. The Grenade Argument Hazel tells her parents she is a grenade and wants to minimize casualties. Her father cries. Her mother insists she is not a grenade. The Apology Later, Hazel overhears her mother saying she won't be a mom anymore if Hazel dies. This haunts Hazel.

Mother's Secret

Mother's Secret The Discovery Hazel discovers that her mother has been taking online classes to get a master's in social work. She wants to counsel families in crisis. The Revelation Hazel is surprised and proud. She jokes that her mother will become a Patrick. Her mother says she will always be her mom. The Promise Hazel makes her parents swear they will stay together after she dies. They promise. Hazel feels a measure of peace.

Throughout the story

After Augustus's death, summer