Review: The Midnight Library

 

★★★★

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig was, well, everything I expected it to be. Was I left wanting a bit more? Yes. Did I enjoy it while I was reading? Also yes. The premise of the novel is as follows: a spectacularly normal millennial woman called Nora Seed is unhappy with her life. Unhappy being an understatement; she's actually outrageously depressed, probably bipolar, and has recently been fired from her job. Also, her cat died. Nora, who is basically fed up with living, decides to take her own life. 

The story unfolds into a somewhat sci-fi-esque drama in which, at the penultimate moment of her life, Nora enters a multi-dimensional library, where each book documents another life that she could have led. The novel takes us through a bunch of these lives, with the ultimate goal being that Nora finds a life she's truly happy in. I won't give away the ending, but I'm sure you've guessed by now. It's very predictable. 

Yes, I enjoyed reading this. I thought it was a great plot and I enjoyed the idea of the story. Did I find Nora insufferable, annoying, and really easy to dislike? Mhm. Was the ending incredibly predictable, and sort of anti-climactic? Also mhm.

In conclusion, I enjoyed The Midnight Library, although I think it fell short at the end. I look forward to reading more of Matt Haig's books. 7/10 recommend. 

P.S. Sorry for the lack of reviews, dedicated readers! I've been busy with a paper for my medieval history class. Don't worry, I'll upload it soon! -Ellie