The quote from Jodi Picoult's "My Sister's Keeper" compares stars to fires that burn with different intensities and lifespans. Some stars, like red dwarfs, have a slow, steady burn lasting thousands of years, while others, such as blue giants, consume their fuel rapidly and shine brilliantly across the universe. This contrast highlights the diverse nature of stars and their life cycles.

As these stars deplete their fuel, they transition into the later stages of their lives, burning helium and reaching even greater temperatures before culminating in a spectacular supernova. These events are among the most luminous occurrences in the universe, allowing observers from vast distances to witness the death of a star, showcasing both the beauty and ephemeral nature of celestial life.