A review by claudiamacpherson
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

emotional funny hopeful inspiring 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

4.5

Nora’s life is a series of disappointments and unfulfilled potential, so after losing the last few people who rely on her, she decides it would be better for everyone if she dies. Instead of death, however, she finds herself in a library—but not just any a library, this one is a library of all the lives she could have lived. All she has to do is open a book, and she’ll be transported to a different life, a different Nora, a parallel universe in which she made different choices.

I had trouble with the book’s premise—suicide is a difficult topic for me to read about—but I’m so glad I pushed through. I love portal fantasies and the concept that you can live many lives. I related deeply to Nora’s indecision and wide variety of interests, so it was interesting to see how each life played out so differently, and reflect on my own unlived lives. I liked following along as Nora’s journey progressed and she began to learn about herself and those around her. And of course, I loved that the overall message of the book is so utterly hopeful.

Happy ending meter (no specific spoilers, just the vibe):
Very happy! I loved the ending and couldn’t see it going any other way. It was uplifting and hopeful and the perfect way to tie up the story.
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