A review by anovelglimpse
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

dark emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I am late to the party with The Midnight Library. I've seen reviews of it in a lot of places since it was released, but I had kind of forgotten about it until recently. I started listening to it without having read the blurb to remind me what it was about, so I basically went in blind. I don't think I would have been prepared for this book even if I had read the blurb because it's a much heavier book than I get from it.

The Midnight Library is the story of Nora Seed. Nora has been through several traumatic events and decides she doesn't want to live anymore. Her choice has her arriving at the Midnight Library to reflect upon her regrets and find out what might have happened had she made different choices. With each life she tries on, she learns new things about herself and the choices she made in her life.

The despair and depression Nora felt was all encompassing. I understood how she got to where she was in life, but I still hoped things would turn around for her. All of her different lives were really interesting. I loved the insights into her choices and the outcomes. I also loved how philosophy and quotes from philosophers were woven in. The progression of this story was really cool and special. The emotional impact was huge. Haig is a talented writer and storyteller. This may have been my first book by Haig, but it certainly won't be my last.

CW: Suicide

You can find this review and others like it at A Novel Glimpse . 
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