“How To Stop Time” by Matt Haig | Book Review

Book review | Rating – 4/5 | Genre – historical fiction/fantasy

Having caught the “Matt Haig” bug after reading The Midnight Library, I decided to have a read of another of his books. I thought I’d stick with an author who’s writing I know, while I’m in the process of moving. So, let’s move swiftly onto the review…

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Tom Hazard has a dangerous secret. He may look like an ordinary 41-year-old history teacher, but he’s also been alive for centuries. From Elizabethan England to jazz-age Paris, from New York to the south seas, Tom has seen it all. As long as he keeps changing his identity he can stay one step ahead of his past – and stay alive. (check it out here)

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What did I think?

As to be expected; I found myself really enjoying this book. Once again I was fully engrossed in the seemingly unique storyline, relishing in the interesting take on living forever.

As with Haig’s last book I read, it was the philosophical discussions that book leans toward that I found most enjoyable. By questioning why Tom is presently depressed, it helped to feel more sympathy for him, and understand how the concept of living forever might not be the best choice.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t all perfect for me. Unlike The Midnight Library, there came a point where I found the story was losing me slightly. With so much back and forth between last and present, it felt like the final act was slightly rushed, the sorry suddenly remembering it had to finish.

Reasons to read How To Stop Time…

• Unique plot: what makes Haig’s book so interesting, is the different take on well known plots. Here history is explored through a modern eye. While the concept of “living forever” is given a very real perspective.
• Interesting facts: for someone who enjoys history facts, it was nice seeing certain aspects of history shown in the book. Yes, some of it is well known, however there were some new facts to discover.

At the end of the day…

I’ve once again found another Matt Haig book that I enjoyed reading. Maybe it was as good as his previous book, but it still provided me with everything I expected; interesting characters, and a unique take on well known plots.

Yes, there came a point where the plot got a bit lost on me, the ending occurring rather unexpectedly. But it never put me off the overall experience.