Review: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

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I think I’m a little late to the game in reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig, but I did finally get to it in my book club. And now, I’m eager to talk about this intriguing novel.

As always, I’m going to share not only my honest thoughts about this book, but you’ll also get my three Rs of book reviews – should you read, reread, or reconsider reading The Midnight Library?

I say READ! But let me tell you why.

cover of the midnight library by matt haig

Synopsis of The Midnight Library

Imagine a library where every book provides a chance to try another life you could have lived. Welcome to “The Midnight Library”!

Our protagonist, Nora Seed, finds herself in this mystical library between life and death. Each book offers a glimpse into how her life might have been different if she had made other choices.

Would she have been happier being a rock star, an Olympic swimmer, or something entirely unexpected? Nora’s journey through her parallel lives is both a magical and deeply introspective adventure. It’s like quantum physics met a self-help book and they decided to go on a blind date!

What I Liked

  • The Concept: The idea of a library with endless possibilities is a book lover’s dream! It’s like Netflix for lives but without the guilt of binge-watching.
  • Character Growth: I thought that Nora’s character development was superb. She evolves from a bundle of regrets to someone who understands the value of her existence.
  • Life Lessons: This book is a gentle reminder that it’s okay to have regrets, as long as you don’t let them define you. It’s like a warm hug in literary form.
  • Haig’s Writing Style: Matt Haig’s writing is like a cup of hot cocoa on a cold day – comforting, sweet, and with the right amount of depth.

What I Disliked

  • Predictability: At times, the story can be a tad predictable. But let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy guessing the end of a story and feeling like a psychic?
  • Rapid Pacing in Places: Some of the life ‘trials’ felt rushed. I wanted to hang around in some chapters for a bit longer, but they ended too quickly.
  • Emotional Rollercoaster: This book may unexpectedly send you on a journey through your own regrets. Keep tissues handy – it’s like an emotional workout!

Read, Reread, or Reconsider?

And here are my three Rs of book reviews. Should you read it, is it good enough to reread at some point, or should you completely reconsider reading The Midnight Library by Matt Haig?

This was a solid READ for me! I hope you like it too.

About the Author – Matt Haig

Matt Haig is a British novelist who has a knack for weaving stories that touch your heart while poking your brain. Haig has written both fiction and non-fiction, and his works often explore mental health. Besides writing books that make you question life, the universe, and everything, he’s also penned some children’s books.

Final Thoughts About The Midnight Library

Well, I’m glad my book club finally got to this book. In my opinion, it’s not one to miss.

The Midnight Library is more than a book; it’s a journey through the ‘what ifs’ of life. Matt Haig has created a world that’s as thought-provoking as it is charming. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re up at midnight, pondering over your life choices. So, grab a copy, find your comfiest reading nook, and prepare to be whisked away to The Midnight Library. Who knows? You might just come out of it with a new perspective on life’s endless possibilities!

And, if your book club is reading this right now or in the future, grab these book club questions for The Midnight Library.


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