Everyone has read the story, or at least seen some version
on TV, about the person who makes some silly wish and relives their life the
same day over and over until they get it just right. Once they finally have that “a-ha!” moment
and learn the life lesson, they go on with their lives seemingly happily ever
after.
This book is similar, but instead of living the same day
over and over the main character, Ursula, lives her life over and over.
The book focuses from 1910ish to 1970ish (I think). Its theme is during the time of World War I
and World War II, which I think is a fascinating era. The first chapter is about a page long, and
it starts with Ursula in Germany going into a restaurant, words are exchanged
back and forth between her and an unnamed man (pretty obvious as to who), and
then she shoots him and is herself killed.
The book then takes you to the beginning of her life and we
follow her from there. What I really
enjoyed about this story was that it opens your eyes to all the little details
that could dramatically affect your life – especially if you were growing up in
the early 20th century as a female.
One of the dominant themes of the book was the emphasis of the role of
women, focusing on being a mom and wife.
There are various factors and settings that could either push you
towards that role, or make you a scarlet-letter-wearer of society. Often the circumstances leading towards being
an outcast were out of women’s control and ability to do anything to be viewed
as different. The storyline of Ursula
that follows the outcast is very sad and depressing.
As the book progresses, Ursula sort of remembers more from
her previous lives, but not always why she acts that way. It’s a “gut instinct” that she knows she has
to follow.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys
reading. It is easy to get through
because the story is captivating. There
are a few instances where it drags, but it’s not long and arduous; as the
reader you just want Ursula to “move-on.”
The ending was very satisfactory, but simultaneously a slap in the
face. If you read it, you’ll know what I
mean.
Happy reading!
-Jackie
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