Novel by Kate Atkinson
Reactions: Almost loved it but not quite

This novel by Kate Atkinson was a best seller, and I can see why. It’s an enjoyable read with a clever premise and narrative style. But I wouldn’t say that I loved it and here’s why: It leverages the plot devices of multiple realities and reincarnation but does so in a way that feels like it’s “reincarnation for dummies.” Let me explain.

Without spoiling it too much, we’re introduced to a character who is born, instantly dies, is reborn, survives the previous death, only to die again later, so on and so forth. It makes for a clever narrative style. However, this idea of reincarnating never really found its footing for me. The character becomes somewhat aware of her past demises, but only through a “danger Will Robinson” voice in the back of her head when the previous death event approaches. She’s aware that she has light death-avoidant premonitions, but she never really explores it very far. Worse, the author never explores it either. This irked me and left me feeling unfulfilled.

I suppose that’s because I’m applying a sci-fi reader’s filter to a novel that is distinctly not science fiction, which may be unfair of me to do. If I firmly remove my critical nerd filter, I can say the book is lovely and written well. I did fall in love with all the main characters, the Todd family, as they navigate two separate World Wars. I also loved that both Urusla and her Aunt Izzie are bold, strong women who march to the beat of their own drum.

One more thing I loved, and this is a tiny spoiler, but I loved the multiple encounters with Hitler (Note: it’s not that much of a spoiler because the book jumps right to it in the first few pages.) There is some commentary in novel that relates to our current situation. Specifically it notes how Hitler was totally weird and awkward in private, but he knew how to play a bold public role that made the country follow along with his brazen actions.

Overall, I enjoyed reading Life After Life. I did stall out on it from about page 150-300, but then the last hundred pages hum along nicely. I didn’t love the ending, but it felt appropriate and expected.

My recommendation is that if you’re a heavy sci-fi reader who cares about understanding the magic or science of world you’re reading, this book isn’t for you. If you can turn off your sci-fi brain, then it’s an enjoyable read.