What If?

Have you ever wondered how your life might have turned out if you had made different choices? This question lies at the heart of three fascinating books: The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells by Andrew Sean Greer, Life After Life by Kate Atkinson, and The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. Each novel takes a unique approach to exploring the idea of parallel lives, alternative choices, and the ripple effects of our decisions.

I recently read two of these books through the library and had read The Midnight Library when it first came out a few years back. Reading The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells and Life After Life with my book club kicked off some awesome chats about how history plays into our lives. These books got me thinking about the decisions we make in life and how they can change the course of our lives.

A Personal Reflection on Choices

When I was in my 20s, I faced a decision that would forever alter the course of my life. I was engaged to a very nice man who asked me to marry him, and at first, I said yes.

But as our engagement went on, I realized something painfully clear. I had fallen in love with the idea of marriage, not the man himself. Calling off the engagement was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but I knew in my heart it was the right one.

I have absolutely no regrets about that decision, but looking back, I know my life would have been drastically different. I wonder just how different my life might have been if I had gone through with it, and that question is exactly what these books explore.

Diving Into Parallel Lives: Insights from Authors and Trailers

The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells

If you’re curious about the inspiration behind The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells, check out this YouTube video where Andrew Sean Greer discusses the novel. His insights into the themes and historical elements add depth to the reading experience.

It’s difficult at times to discuss a book without giving away too much. In my reviews, I try to entice the reader with just enough information about the novel so they can make their own decision about whether to read it. Other books Greer is known for include The Confessions of Max Tivoli and The Story of a Marriage. Both of these are on my TBR list now as I found his writing style to be introspective, evocative and witty.

Life After Life

Kate Atkinson’s Life After Life is an intricately crafted narrative about living multiple lives and the consequences of our choices. The official book trailer perfectly captures the book’s tone and premise, offering a glimpse into the world of Ursula Todd.

Kate Atkinson masterfully weaves together complex narratives with a balance of sharp wit and emotional depth. I have since put more of her books on my TBR, including the second in the Todd Series - A God in Ruins which focuses on Ursula's brother Teddy.

The Midnight Library

Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library explores a magical realm where Nora Seed discovers the infinite possibilities of her choices. The book trailer brings the novel’s uplifting and thought-provoking themes to life.

I really like the way Matt Haig writes. He has a way of taking complex ideas and putting them in a clear and relatable manner. He uses simple yet poignant language, focusing on universal themes of hope, resilience, and self-discovery.

Three Stories, Three Perspectives

The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells: Greta’s story is deeply personal, focusing on relationships and emotional growth as she navigates three distinct historical timelines. The novel invites readers to reflect on how the era we live in shapes our choices and relationships.

“When you were a little girl, Madam.....was this the woman you dreamed of becoming?”

- The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells, Andrew Sean Greer

Life After Life: Ursula Todd’s journey spans multiple lives, each subtly altering her path through key historical events like the World Wars. Atkinson’s intricate narrative highlights how small decisions can ripple out to create dramatically different outcomes.

“What if we had a chance to do it again and again, until we finally did get it right? Wouldn't that be wonderful?” - Life After Life, Kate Atkinson

The Midnight Library: Nora Seed’s exploration of alternate lives is uplifting and accessible, with a clear message about appreciating the life we have. Haig’s approach blends philosophical musings with a hopeful tone, making it a relatable and inspiring read.

“Between life and death there is a library, and within that library, the shelves go on forever. Every book provides a chance to try another life you could have lived. To see how things would be if you had made other choices… Would you have done anything different, if you had the chance to undo your regrets?” - The Midnight Library, Matt Haig

Questions to Spark Discussion for Your Book Group

If you could live an alternate version of your life, what would you hope to discover?

How does each book approach the idea of parallel lives differently? Which perspective did you find most compelling?

Do you think exploring alternate lives changes how the protagonists see their “real” life? How did this resonate with you?

In The Midnight Library, the message is about appreciating the life you have. Do Life After Life or The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells offer a similar conclusion?

Now It's Your Turn!

Have you read The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells, Life After Life, or The Midnight Library? Did any of the stories resonate with you, or one more than the other?

Are there any other books about parallel lives that you’d recommend? I'm always looking for new books to read. Let's love to keep the conversation going—share your thoughts in the comments!