“The Midnight Library” is a novel written by Matt Haig, published in 2020. The book tells the story of Nora Seed, a thirty-something woman who feels like she has failed at life. She is unhappy with her job, her relationships, and her entire existence. One night, Nora decides to end her life. However, instead of dying, she finds herself in the Midnight Library, a place between life and death, where she can explore all the possible lives she could have lived.
Plot Summary
Nora Seed is a former piano prodigy who never fulfilled her potential. She is estranged from her family, and her best friend has moved away. She feels alone and disconnected from the world. One night, she decides to die by suicide, and she wakes up in the Midnight Library. There, she meets Mrs. Elm, her former school librarian, who explains that the books in the library are all the possible lives Nora could have lived.
Nora starts exploring the books, trying out different lives, and experiencing what it would be like to have made different choices. She tries out being a glaciologist in the Arctic, an Olympic swimmer, a rock star, a married mother, a successful businesswoman, and many more. With each life, Nora learns more about herself and what she really wants in life.
The Midnight Library Characters
Nora Seed is the protagonist of the novel. She is a complex character who is struggling with depression and a sense of failure. Mrs. Elm is the librarian of the Midnight Library, and she guides Nora through her journey. Other characters include Nora’s brother, her former bandmate, her ex-boyfriend, and her former boss.
The Midnight Library Themes
One of the main themes of the novel is the idea of regret and the question of “what if?”. Nora is given the opportunity to explore all the possible lives she could have lived and to see how her choices could have affected her future. The novel also deals with the theme of mental health, particularly depression, and suicide.
Writing Style
Matt Haig’s writing style is simple and easy to read, with short chapters and a fast-paced plot. The book is written in the third person, but the reader is given access to Nora’s thoughts and feelings.
Conclusion
“The Midnight Library” is a thought-provoking and emotional novel that explores the idea of regret and the importance of living in the present. It is a powerful reminder that our choices and actions shape our lives and that we should never give up on the possibility of a better future. The book has received critical acclaim and has become a bestseller, resonating with readers all over the world.