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560
Novel • Fiction
England • 20th century
2013
Adult
18+ years
970L
Life After Life by Kate Atkinson follows Ursula Todd, who is repeatedly reborn in the same place and time, allowing her to experience and alter events in the tumultuous mid-20th century, particularly the World Wars. Through her various lives, Ursula explores the themes of fate, choice, and the meaning of existence against the broader backdrop of historical events. The book discusses instances of sexual violence, domestic violence, death by suicide, termination of a pregnancy, and child loss.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Melancholic
Fantastical
259,090 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kate Atkinson's Life After Life has garnered praise for its inventive narrative structure, exploring themes of destiny and resilience through Ursula's multiple lives. Critics lauded Atkinson's prose and character development, though some found the repetitive timeline confusing. Overall, it's celebrated for its originality and emotional depth.
Fans of historical fiction and intricate narratives will relish Kate Atkinson's Life After Life. If you enjoyed the complex temporal structures in Audrey Niffenegger's The Time Traveler's Wife or the profound historical reflections in The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, you'll find this novel compelling and thought-provoking.
259,090 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sylvie Beresford Todd
Ursula's mother, who begins as a romanticized figure of motherhood but becomes bitter as time progresses, having been influenced by her past experiences and losses.
Teddy Todd
Ursula’s beloved younger brother, who embodies loyalty and kindness, representing the cherished aspects of humanity and the hope for the future.
Hugh Todd
The steady patriarch of the Todd family, known for his warmth, care for others, and enthusiasm for life, which make him a stabilizing force for those around him.
Isobel (Izzy) Todd
Hugh’s younger sister, who lives an independent and pleasure-seeking lifestyle, often serving as a mentor to Ursula with her willingness to embrace life's pleasures.
Maurice Todd
Ursula’s older brother, who is ambitious and self-serving, with little empathy for his family, valuing his own accomplishments above relationships.
Miss Woolf
A retired hospital matron who supports Ursula during World War II, providing moral guidance and demonstrating resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity.
560
Novel • Fiction
England • 20th century
2013
Adult
18+ years
970L
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