I don’t usually get emotional over books, but The Midnight Library hit differently. I picked it up thinking it was just another “feel good” novel — but by the last page, I was just sitting there, staring at the wall.
It’s not just a book. It’s a mirror.

What's the book about?

The main character, Nora Seed, is in a really dark place in her life. She feels like everything she’s done was a mistake. And then... she dies.
But instead of going to heaven or hell, she wakes up in a strange library. Each book on the shelf is a different version of her life — what could have happened if she made a different choice.

One book shows what her life would've been if she became a rock star. Another one if she married her ex. Or became an Olympic swimmer. Or just said yes instead of no.

She gets to live each life for a while — and through those lives, she starts to understand what really matters.

What I felt while reading

At first, I thought, "Okay, cool concept." But then the book slowly started getting under my skin. It made me think of all those “what if” moments in my own life.

• What if I studied something else?

• What if I kept in touch with someone I lost?

• What if I had taken a risk instead of playing it safe?

The way Matt Haig writes is simple, but it hits deep. It doesn't try to be too clever or poetic — it just feels honest.

Why this book matters

I think we all carry regrets. Even if life is okay, there’s always that tiny voice that says, “Maybe I could’ve done better.”
This book doesn’t promise a perfect life. It shows that every version of your life will have pain, joy, loss, and love. The question is: can you find meaning in this one — the life you already have?

Final thoughts

The Midnight Library isn’t loud. It doesn’t have explosions or murder or huge twists. But it’s the kind of story that stays with you long after you close the book. If you’re going through a rough time, or just feel stuck, this book might give you a little hope.

My rating: 9/10
A beautiful reminder that even with all its imperfections, your life is still worth living.

Have you ever wished for a different life? Or wondered what would’ve happened if you made one different choice? Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear your story.

— Sujon Rana