The Midnight Library

Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library is a captivating exploration of life, regret, and the myriad paths we could have taken. This isn't just a story; it's an experience, a poignant journey through the "what ifs" that haunt us all. Haig blends elements of philosophy and science to create a narrative that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.

The book's brilliance lies in its unique approach to regrets. Instead of simply wallowing in them, Haig presents a library between life and death, a liminal space where Nora gets a chance to explore the alternate lives she might have lived. This concept is well executed, offering a fresh perspective on the choices we make and the roads not taken. It's a testament to Haig's skill that he manages to make this exploration feel both fantastical and utterly real.

What truly elevates The Midnight Library is its profound analysis of the art of living. Haig delves into the complexities of human existence with a delicate touch, weaving together philosophical insights and scientific concepts to illuminate the beauty and fragility of life. The book doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of the human condition, such as depression and despair, but in the end it offers a message of hope and resilience. It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there's always the possibility of finding light and meaning.

The Midnight Library is more than just a book; it's a mirror reflecting our own lives, our regrets, and our potential. It’s a powerful reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of embracing every moment. I loved this novel, and I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.

“The only way to learn is to live.” - Ms. Elm

–This review was partially drafted by A.I. (Gemini) with a fairly lengthy prompt containing my opinions and the notes I took while reading. Much of the review is rewording of the prompt I entered and my notes. –

2.5 stars

[b:The Midnight Library|52578297|The Midnight Library|Matt Haig|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1602190253l/52578297.SY75.jpg|74043794] is one of those books that sets out to achieve something and loses the plot midway, becoming overly pedantic in the process.

The book begins with Nora Seed, a young woman, on the brink of making a terrible choice. Having been ousted from her job, found out that her beloved cat has been run over, that her estranged brother has visited the town she lives in without having reached out to her, and that her friendships have withered away, she resolves that life has become to heavy, too unbearable to even pretend to plod along. She leaves a note to whoever will find it, and puts out a vaguely ominous post on Facebook. She overdoses on antidepressants and...

...wakes up in a library. The Midnight Library, to be precise. An ephemeral place poised at the juncture of life and death, very bardo-esque. The library is immense in its scope, with endless shelves of books, all in varying shades of green. She is greeted by what appears to be Mrs. Elm, a figure from her childhood who she felt close to, and who was present at a crucial juncture in Nora's life. Haig delves into the concept of multiverses and quantum indeterminacy, and explores the idea that every time we make a choice, a separate reality is created for what would have been the potential or possible outcomes of that choice. Each book is a representation of a life that Nora could have lived, if she had made different choices.

"Every life contains many millions of decisions," says Mrs. Elm.

"Some big, some small. But every time one decision is taken over another, the outcomes differ. An irreversible variation occurs, which in turn leads to further variations. These books are portals to all the lives you could be living."