"An Abundance of Katherines" is a young adult novel written by John Green. Published in 2006, the book is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of Colin Singleton, a prodigious child prodigy who has just graduated from high school. Colin is obsessed with dating girls named Katherine and has been dumped by 19 girls with that name.
After being dumped by his 19th Katherine, Colin embarks on a road trip with his best friend, Hassan, in an attempt to heal his broken heart and figure out a theorem that could predict the outcome of any romantic relationship. The two friends end up in a small town called Gutshot, Tennessee, where they find unexpected jobs and get involved in the lives of the local residents.
Throughout the story, Colin grapples with questions of identity, self-worth, and his place in the world. The novel delves into themes of friendship, love, and the complexities of human relationships. It also incorporates elements of humor, mathematics, and quirky characters, which are characteristic of John Green's writing style.
"An Abundance of Katherines" explores the idea of creating meaning in one's life, even when faced with disappointment and uncertainty. The characters' growth and interactions contribute to the novel's exploration of personal development and the realization that there's more to life than the pursuit of romantic relationships.
Like many of John Green's novels, "An Abundance of Katherines" balances humor and poignant moments, making it a popular choice among young adult readers who appreciate stories that blend emotional depth with lightheartedness.