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The Time Keeper

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Who Would Like This Book:

Mitch Albom takes the all-too-familiar topic of time and spins it into a modern fable with heart, imagination, and a dash of fantasy. If you enjoy stories that prompt a little self-reflection, focus on life's big questions, or simply love books that inspire you to live in the moment, this one's for you. It appeals to fans of Albom's previous works, as well as readers who enjoy gentle parables, light philosophical musings, or an accessible approach to deep topics. Special shoutout to audiobook lovers - Dan Stevens' narration gets rave reviews!

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found the story a bit too simplistic, heavy-handed with its message, or even predictable. If you're craving complex characters, subtle storytelling, or dislike obvious life lessons, this book may not hit the mark. Fans looking for a more engaging plot, deeper character development, or less emphasis on overt moralizing might find themselves underwhelmed. Also, if you're put off by “fable-like” narratives or spiritual undertones, this may not be your cup of tea.

A short, thought-provoking fable about the value of time - easy to read, gently inspiring, and ideal for anyone needing a pause-and-reflect moment. Not for those seeking gritty realism or nuanced complexity, but a sweet reminder to cherish each minute.

About:

'The Time Keeper' by Mitch Albom is a thought-provoking tale that explores the concept of time and its significance in our lives. The story follows Dor, also known as Father Time, who becomes the thread connecting various characters and their relationships with time. Through multiple perspectives and alternating plots, the book delves into the value of time, how we choose to spend it, and the consequences of our actions related to time. Albom's writing style is described as easy to read yet deep, conveying profound messages about living in the present moment and appreciating the time we have.

Characters:

The characters are complex and represent different aspects of humanity's struggle with time—Dor as the inventor, Victor as the desperate rich man, and Sarah as the troubled youth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward and poignant, utilizing short chapters to shift perspectives, prompting readers to reflect on their relationship with time.

Plot/Storyline:

The story revolves around Dor, who becomes Father Time, after inventing timekeeping and facing the repercussions of his obsession. It follows both him and two modern characters, exploring their relationships with time and life's values.

Setting:

The setting transitions from ancient times, when the measurement of time is first introduced, to contemporary society dealing with its myriad challenges.

Pacing:

The pacing allows for quick progression through the story, though it may feel disjointed to some readers due to the frequent shifts in perspective.
Tonight she will see him. Tonight at eight-thirty. She recites it excitedly—Eight-thirty, eight-thirty!—and she wonders what to wear. The black jeans? The sleeveless top? No. She hates her arms. Not t...

Notes:

The Time Keeper is about the first man to measure time named Dor.
Dor's obsession with measuring time leads to his punishment by God, who banishes him to a cave for 6,000 years.
He becomes known as Father Time during his imprisonment.
The story explores the lives of two modern characters, Victor and Sarah, who are struggling with their own issues related to time.
Victor is a terminally ill elderly man who wishes to extend his life, while Sarah is a teenager who desires to end hers.
Dor must help both Victor and Sarah understand the importance of valuing the time they have.
The book emphasizes that time is a gift and should be cherished, rather than controlled or feared.
Albom's writing style combines fantasy elements with a moral lesson about the consequences of our obsession with time.
He uses short chapters to weave between the stories of Dor, Victor, and Sarah, creating a sense of urgency and reflection.
The core message is that while we live by time, we do not own it; instead, we should focus on living in the present moment.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of suicide and mental health issues, as well as themes of mortality and existential crises.

From The Publisher:

From the author who's inspired millions worldwide with books like Tuesdays with Morrie and The Five People You Meet in Heaven comes his most imaginative novel yet, The Time Keeper-a compelling fable about the first man on Earth to count the hours.

The man who became Father Time.

In Mitch Albom's exceptional work of fiction, the inventor of the world's first clock is punished for trying to measure God's greatest gift. He is banished to a cave for centuries and forced to listen to the voices of all who come after him seeking more days, more years.

Eventually, with his soul nearly broken, Father Time is granted his freedom, along with a magical hourglass and a mission: a chance to redeem himself by teaching two earthly people the true meaning of time.

He returns to our world-now dominated by the hour-counting he so innocently began-and commences a journey with two unlikely partners: one a teenage girl who is about to give up on life, the other a wealthy old businessman who wants to live forever. To save himself, he must save them both. And stop the world to do so.

Told in Albom's signature spare, evocative prose, this remarkably original tale will inspire readers everywhere to reconsider their own notions of time, how they spend it, and how precious it truly is.

Ratings (14)

Loved It (7)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (3)

Reader Stats (22):

Read It (14)
Want To Read (5)
Not Interested (3)

3 comment(s)

Loved It
3 months

Quite an imaginative read - thought provoking and a fairly quick, easy read with short chapters. The characters are well portrayed, although it was slightly convoluted.

 
Loved It
8 months

4 star

RTC

Happy Reading!!

 
Loved It
10 months

“The Time Keeper” is a thought-provoking and poignant tale that explores the concept of time and its impact on human life. The story follows Dor, the first man to ever attempt to keep track of time, who is punished for his actions by being banished to a cave where he must listen to the voices of all who come after him seeking more days and more years. Eventually, he is granted his freedom and given a mission: to teach two people, a teenage girl who wants her time to end and an old man who wants to live forever, the true meaning of time.

The audiobook version of “The Time Keeper” is beautifully narrated, with the voice actor bringing the characters and their emotions to life in a way that truly immerses the listener in the story. The pacing is well-done, with the story unfolding at a steady pace that keeps the listener engaged throughout.

One of the strengths of “The Time Keeper” is its ability to make the reader reflect on their own relationship with time. Through the experiences of Dor and the two people he is tasked with helping, we are reminded of the importance of cherishing the time we have and making the most of every moment. The story also touches on themes such as love, loss, and redemption, making it a deeply moving and emotional listen.

Overall, “The Time Keeper” is a beautifully written and narrated audiobook that will leave a lasting impression on its listeners. Its exploration of time and its impact on our lives is both thought-provoking and poignant, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for a meaningful and engaging story.

 
 
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