A review by writersrelief
Timequake by Kurt Vonnegut

emotional funny reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 
TIMEQUAKE is the culmination of all of Kurt Vonnegut’s work tied messily into an imperfect package. For avid Vonnegut fans, TIMEQUAKE is a welcome exploration of the themes and characters Vonnegut weaves throughout all of his writing. This book deals with free will, time, depression, and trauma. Because of the timequake in the story, everyone must live the decade between February 17, 1991 and February 17, 2001 over again. And that includes making the same mistakes. 
 
A novel within a novel, TIMEQUAKE explores Vonnegut’s mindset near the end of his life. This very much feels like the magnum opus of a dying man who has dedicated his life to writing. TIMEQUAKE is both nostalgic and unsentimental; it has the Vonnegut’s signature humor while also displaying gratitude towards his dedicated readers and the writers he impacted along his writing career. 
 
Near the end of the book, Timequake features a scene of Kilgore Trout (Vonnegut’s own stand-in) at a clambake with famous writers who have greatly influenced Trout. One of those writers is Robert B. Weide. This small feature of a dedicated fan and friend exemplifies how Vonnegut cares for those he has had an impact on. TIMEQUAKE is a must-read for every Vonnegut fan!