Twice by Mitch Albom - [Book Review]

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Book Details:

Title: Twice

Author: Mitch Albom

Genre: Psychological fiction, time travel fiction

Publisher: Harper

Print Length: 320 pages

Source: A copy from the local library

Blurb:

A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK • AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

What if you got to do everything in your life—twice? The heart of Mitch Albom’s newest novel is a stunning love story that dares to explore how our unchecked desires might mean losing what we’ve had all along.

When he is eight years old, Alfie Logan discovers the magical ability to get a second chance at everything. He can undo any moment and live it again. The one catch: he must accept the consequences of his second try—for better or worse.

He grows up correcting his mistakes and saving himself from adolescent embarrassments. He even takes foolishly dangerous risks, just to see what it’s like to come close to death, before tapping back to safety.

Eventually, Alfie turns his gift to his love life, studying his crushes and going back to make himself more appealing. In time, he falls deeply in love with Gianna, the woman he believes is the one. He seems to find contentment.

But as the years pass, Alfie’s eye begins to wander. Which is when he learns a lone caveat to his power: once he undoes a love, that person can never fall in love with him again. Knowing if he gives into to temptation, he will risk losing what he has with Gianna, Alfie makes a choice that changes his life forever.

The book begins many years later, after an ailing Alfie is arrested for allegedly cheating and winning millions at a casino roulette wheel. As a curious detective interrogates him, he slowly uncovers Alfie’s incredible story, and its most unlikely conclusion.

In Twice, America’s favorite storyteller, Mitch Albom, is at the top of his powers. A love story that is enchanting, probing, and clairvoyant in matters of the heart, Twice will make you think, weep, and overflow with love from beginning to end.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

My Review:

This is easily another 5-star read for me this year! Then again, that's not too surprising because it's written by Mitch Albom. I've previously read The Time Keeper and Tuesdays with Morrie, and both left a lasting impression on me. Twice continues that tradition with its thought-provoking story and emotional depth.

The story follows Alfie, a man with a remarkable gift: whenever he wants, he can relive a specific moment in his life simply by saying "Twice." Imagine being able to rewind an awkward conversation with your partner, fix a mistake, or make a different choice altogether. It's a fascinating concept, and Mitch Albom explores it in a way that feels both magical and deeply human.

As Alfie starts revisiting moments from his past, the story becomes increasingly layered. There are times when the back-and-forth movement through time can feel a little complex, but the narrative remains engaging and keeps you invested in what happens next.

What did I love?

The concept itself is what drew me in. Who hasn't wondered what they would do if they could get a second chance at certain moments in life?

I also loved how the story unfolds. Albom reveals information gradually, keeping the mystery alive and making each chapter hard to put down. The pacing works well, balancing the emotional moments with the more intriguing aspects of Alfie's gift.

What really stood out to me, though, was the message behind the story. While Alfie can revisit the past, he quickly learns that second chances don't guarantee perfect outcomes. Some things simply cannot be changed. He can't bring back someone who has died, and he can't force someone to love him in exactly the same way as before. Every attempt to alter the past comes with consequences, making the story both moving and thought-provoking.

Overall

Twice is a beautifully written novel that's easy to read yet filled with meaningful ideas. It's a compelling look at human nature, regret, love, and the choices that shape our lives. Most importantly, it's a gentle reminder to appreciate what we have in the present instead of constantly wishing for a different past.

If you enjoy stories that blend a touch of magic with heartfelt life lessons, Twice is definitely worth picking up. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

My Rating: 5/5

Until next time,