A review by a_kt
Under the Whispering Door, by TJ Klune

challenging emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A beautiful, heart wrenching, and cathartic story.  TJ Klune really outdid himself with this one. A very interest and introspective take on life and how we can learn from the lives of those around us. I cried no less than 4 times while reading this book. 

The one thing keeping it from a 5/5 was the ending. I understand why it went the direction it did, but a small part of me wishes it would have ended differently. See below for spoilers. 

SpoilerI really think Wallace should have gone through the door at the end. I know everyone loves a happy ending, but it seemed to kind of undo all of the work of the whole story up until that point. He learned to let go, to make peace, and to cherish the time he had. Bringing him back to life even in his "changed" state just fell flat a little for me. Still enjoyed it immensely though.
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