A review by _head_full_of_books_
Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune

emotional funny hopeful reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 Synopsis – Wallace Price was not a nice guy. He regarded work as the most important part of his life and never had any friends. He was not loved by his colleagues. It did not bother him while he was alive. But upon attending his own funeral as a ghost and seeing only 5 people there he is shocked. His reaper Mei is there to escort him to his ferryman, Hugo who will help him cross over. 

This was a unique book for me. I don’t think I have read books that focused so much on death, grief and after life. Death and grief are almost character like in this book. As Wallace digests that he is dead and reflects on his life we see him go thru the struggles of grief and realize the importance of love, empathy, and compassion. With the help of Hugo, Mei and Hugo’s grandfather (another ghost), Wallace tries to make right in whatever time he has. 

This book is heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. The heaviness of death does get you, but Klune masterfully blends it with humor and hope. With his diverse characters he brings different views to the table. 

I highly recommend this book but with a word of caution. Death in all forms (illness, murder & suicide) is discussed here. You need to be in the right frame of mind to pick this book. It left me pondering about my own life and the importance of love and kindness in this world.