Turtles All the Way Down

Turtles All the Way Down is a young adult novel by American author John Green, first published in 2017.

"Turtles All the Way Down" is a young adult novel by American author John Green, first published on October 10, 2017. The story follows 16-year-old Aza Holmes, an Indiana teenager living with obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety, as she becomes involved in a search for a missing billionaire and reconnects with an old friend. The novel debuted at number 1 on the *New York Times* Best Seller list in the Young Adult Hardcover category and remained on the list for 62 weeks.

Plot

The novel follows Aza Holmes and her friend Daisy as they investigate the disappearance of billionaire Russell Pickett. Aza struggles with intrusive thoughts, compulsive behavior, and anxiety throughout the investigation. The search leads her to reconnect with Davis Pickett, a childhood friend and the fugitive's son.

Themes

The book explores mental illness, friendship, romance, and self-perception through Aza's inner life and relationships. It offers a nuanced portrayal of living with obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety, weaving these themes into the narrative of a teenage girl navigating loss and connection.

Publication and reception

Published by Dutton Books in 2017, the novel achieved major commercial success. It reached number 1 on the *New York Times* Best Seller list in the Young Adult Hardcover category and maintained a presence on the list for 62 weeks. The novel is John Green's fifth solo novel and his seventh overall.

Adaptation

A film adaptation of "Turtles All the Way Down" was released on Max in May 2024. The adaptation extends the novel's reach beyond print, introducing the story to a new audience.