The movie adaption of The Time Traveler’s Wife was recently released, but the original novel written by Audrey Niffenegger is a book that should not be overlooked. From start to finish, it is a captivating read, one of those truly rare books that actually draws you in and holds you there so it’s almost impossible to put down until the last page is turned.
The story is woven around two main characters, Henry and Clare, and describes all the ups and downs they go through together. Henry DeTamble has a genetic disorder that causes him to involuntarily jump back or forwards in time, often at completely random moments. This makes it hard for him to live the normal life he so desperately wants to lead. Clare Abshire first met Henry when she was six, and he in his forties. Over the years, until they finally meet in the present, he travelled back in time as she grew older and soon becomes the most important part of Clare’s life.
The strange way that both their lives are entwined is beautiful. It is a very different and unusual storyline but is so extremely well written that at the same time it is completely believable. It explores lots of issues about love, freewill and religion. Clare and Henry’s story sucks you in so that you become a part of the tangled world between the pages. I would recommend this book to anyone who is simply after a good read.
