One of the hardest things I’ve done as a reader is give myself permission to put down a book – to not finish. It’s a struggle for me every time. I feel a sense of guilt like I’ve let the book down. I also fear that if I stop reading, this book that clearly isn’t for me, will somehow switch gears and I’ll miss something worthwhile. But time is precious and we do not have to finish every book we start.
My most recent “Did Not Finish” book is “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. I really wanted to like this book. It has so many positive reviews! Plus, it explores the concept that each decision we make creates an alternate reality where we make the other decision and has a mysterious and mystical library full of infinite knowledge both in books and in the form of a caretaker. I should love this book!
Alas, it suffered two problems for me: 1) The main character dies by suicide and is thus transported to the titular Midnight Library. Her suicide and the feelings that led her to that point are too heavy for me right now. 2) The “Quantum Leap” style exploration of the main character’s multiverse was off putting. I couldn’t suspend disbelief long enough to get invested in the story and want to finish reading. I think I’m in the minority here, so let me know if you had a different experience with “The Midnight Library.”
In the meantime, we have so much going on at your Pryor Library this week! Our grab & go craft, available at the Youth Services Desk, is Animal Origami. (It may be a challenge for those under 5 years old.) We have a virtual trivia night for teens and adults on Thurs. June 17 at 6:30 pm (watch our Facebook for links). And on Friday at 10 am, a performer and her border collies will be on the lawn across the street for “Wag that tale.” It’s sure to be a great time!