TL;DR
Eight people face life-altering choices when mysterious boxes reveal the exact number of years they have left to live in Nikki Erlick's thought-provoking novel, 'The Measure.'
What is The Measure about
'The Measure' by Nikki Erlick delves into the lives of eight ordinary individuals who receive a mysterious wooden box that reveals their lifespan. This captivating narrative explores how the knowledge of their remaining years impacts their choices, relationships, and perspectives on life. As the world grapples with the implications of these boxes, the characters' intertwined stories highlight themes of love, hope, fear, and the human condition. The book's backdrop, while not directly addressing COVID-19, resonates with the issues brought to light by the pandemic and societal movements like Black Lives Matter.
The Measure 5 Key Takeaways
The Arrival of the Boxes
One morning, everyone in the world receives a small wooden box that contains a string representing their lifespan. This event throws the world into chaos and forces people to confront their mortality.
Characters' Choices
The story follows eight individuals as they decide whether to open their boxes and how the knowledge (or lack thereof) shapes their lives. Their decisions range from embracing the information to avoiding it entirely.
Interwoven Lives
The characters' lives become interconnected in unexpected ways. Best friends, pen pals, a couple, a doctor, and a politician each face unique challenges and revelations as they navigate their new reality.
Societal Impact
The novel examines the broader societal implications of the boxes. Communities and governments struggle with the ethical and moral questions posed by this newfound knowledge.
Personal Growth and Reflection
As the characters grapple with their choices, they experience profound personal growth. The story encourages readers to reflect on how they measure their own lives and the importance of living fully.
Top The Measure Quotes
- "In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."
- "What would you do if you knew the measure of your life?"
Who should read The Measure?
'The Measure' is ideal for readers who enjoy thought-provoking fiction that explores deep philosophical questions and the human experience. Fans of novels like 'The Midnight Library' will find this book equally engaging and uplifting. It is also suitable for book clubs and readers interested in stories about relationships, destiny, and personal growth.
The Measure Best Reviews
- 'The Measure' is a spellbinding tale that captures the reader's imagination and compels them to ponder life's big questions. Nikki Erlick's debut novel is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. —The New York Times
- With its unique premise and deeply emotional storytelling, 'The Measure' is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. —The Washington Post
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The Measure FAQs
What is the book 'The Measure' about?
The book follows eight people who, like the rest of the world, receive a box containing a string that designates their lifespan. It explores how their lives and relationships change as a result of knowing or choosing not to know their lifespan.
Is 'The Measure' worth reading?
Yes, 'The Measure' is highly recommended for its unique premise and thought-provoking narrative. It was nominated for best science fiction book of 2022 and best debut novel by Good Reads Choice Awards.
Is 'The Measure' related to COVID-19?
While the novel does not directly address COVID-19, it reflects themes and issues highlighted by the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement, making it relevant to contemporary readers.