Things Couldn't Be Righter

Will Grayson, Will Grayson 

by John Green

“Nothing's wrong. Everything's right. Things couldn't be righter. Things could be less tired. They could be less busy. They could be less caffeinated. But they couldn't be righter.”― John Green, Will Grayson, Will Grayson

I am reminded of how much things have changed by this book. This novel would not have been possible years ago, when homosexuality was not even discussed, much less celebrated, in high school. If you believe news reports about bullying and worse, it still seems a little bit like a fantasy. However, this is fiction, and it is written well. It tells the tale of two teenage boys named Will Grayson who lead very different lives and reside in different Chicago suburbs until their paths unexpectedly cross and result in a life-changing experience. The book switches between their points of view, with Levithan writing one chapter and Green writing the other, each of which reflects their unique voices and challenges.

John Green’s first Will Grayson is a humorous, self-deprecating man who lives by the maxim "don’t care too much," in part to keep his life simple and in part to avoid trouble. His best friend, Tiny Cooper—a larger-than-life, flamboyantly gay football player—drags him into a whirlwind of drama, including a musical Tiny’s producing about his own life. The second Will Grayson, penned by Levithan, is a darker, more introspective character battling depression, isolation, and a complicated relationship with his mother. He’s also grappling with his sexuality and a budding online romance with a boy named Isaac, which takes a sharp turn when they plan to meet in person.

The plot kicks off when the two Wills meet by chance in a porn store (a quirky, awkward setup that’s pure John Green). From there, their lives intertwine through Tiny, who becomes a bridge between their worlds. The story explores themes of identity, friendship, love, and self-acceptance, all wrapped in a mix of humor, heartache, and teenage messiness. Tiny’s musical, which culminates in a grand performance, serves as a literal and metaphorical stage for the characters to confront their feelings and grow.

The narrative demonstrates authentic dialogue and emotional depth. Green’s Will brings the sarcastic, nerdy charm fans of The Fault in Our Stars will recognize, while Levithan’s Will offers a raw, poetic look at mental health and queer identity. The collaboration shines in how seamlessly the two narratives blend, even with their tonal differences. Tiny Cooper is a standout—hilarious, over-the-top, and genuinely moving as he pushes both Wills to step out of their comfort zones.

That said, the book is not flawless. The premise of two kids with the same name meeting seems a bit contrived, and the musical subplot feels like it overshadows the quieter character moments. The ending, while uplifting, ties things up a little too neatly for a story about such messy lives. Still, it’s a fan favorite, often lauded for its heart and its unapologetic celebration of individuality.