The Time Traveler's Wife

I read The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger back in 2002, when I received an Advance Reading Copy (ARC) from the publisher. The book stayed with me long after I finished reading it. It was unlike anything I had ever read before, or since! Part science fiction, part romance, this is a story of love and longing.

I lent the ARC to my sister, if I recall correctly, and never did end up reading the final, published version of the book although I assume that little was changed. I had a difficult time explaining the storyline to others and I was thrilled when I heard that Jennifer Aniston & Brad Pitt (who were still married at that time) purchased the film rights before the book was even released. It was an immediate best seller and I nearly forgot about the project until they began filming a few years ago.

The Time Traveler's Wife is the first book that I mention to people when they ask me to list my favorites. The film did not disappoint, although I was prepared and made sure to bring plenty of tissues. It was amazing and brought me to tears with practically every scene.

I did hear some people around me trying to figure it all out (during the film and afterward), so I do think that reading the book ahead of time left me a little more prepared for the idea of this time traveling, tear-jerker of a story. It was beautifully portrayed by Eric Bana and Rachel McAdams.

I won't spoil the movie for those who haven't seen it, but I do highly encourage you to read the book first. It's an amazing adventure that will keep you turning the pages, falling in love with each of the characters and leave you wondering what your life would be like if you could travel to the past or into the future.

It left me with many questions, such as what would I tell my seventeen-year-old self if I could? What would I tell my grandchildren if I could travel into the future? Or would I just want to be there to witness and observe?