 |
| cover from Goodreads |
Author: Albert Espinsoa
Publication Details: July 2nd 2015 by Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial (first published in 2010)
Copy: eARC from Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial through NetGalley
Everything You and I Could Have Been If We Weren’t You and I follows a day in the life of Marcos as he tries to change the course of his life after the death of his beloved mother. Just when he is about to give up sleep, an unexpected phone call will make him re-evaluate his choice and perhaps, his future. A gift, a seemingly familiar woman, a stranger, a revelation. In one day, Marcos will not only try to make sense of his life, but will also understand his being and the world he’s living in. (Own blurb.)
What made me request this book was the title. I think the title is (mouthful, yes... Haha!) catchy and very intriguing. I had no idea what the book was about when I started reading, so I was really looking forward to the plot and character development.
Plot
I find this book unusual, a good unusual I must say, in the sense that it has a unique way of telling a story and engaging the reader, or at least me, into Marcos's life.
The first chapter immediately piqued my curiosity. I was intrigued by the no-sleep thing; and honestly, it could be tempting, to not sleep forever. From that, the story was followed with events that will alter Marcos's life.
It was not what I expected because I thought the no-sleep thing will be explored. But I still quite liked how it turned out. I've never read anything like this book before. The string of events happening in a day plus the flashbacks of Marcos can be a bit overwhelming. Well, it was a lot to take, to be honest. They seem completely random and just "thrown into the mix." One might say this or that isn't really necessary, but it's surprising how the events were connected and tied to the main character shaping his thoughts and decisions.
I also liked that it's unpredictable. The turn of events were, should I say, surprising? Haha! There were a lot going on so I had no idea how things will go and how everything will be reconciled at the end. Speaking of, the ending was okay; although, I kind of wished for it to be a bit different.
Plot-wise, I think Everything (yes, that's my shorthand version of the title... Haha!) is an enjoyable read. I had unmet expectations but overall it was a good read.
Character
Marcos's thoughts were easy to read and follow. I couldn't say much because his character was not described thoroughly. But from what was presented, he is likable. He was quite resigned at the beginning of the story. His development was a bit slow but I believe that it was a sure one.
The encounter with other secondary characters were brief but meaningful. I liked how the book showed the importance of relationship, how even the briefest and the shallowest of interaction can affect other people.
Writing
I liked the author's style of writing. Despite the many events happening in a day, the author was able to present the concepts in a smooth manner. The pacing was fast but the story was easy to follow and understand. The book can be read in one sitting. (But I was not able to because... work. Haha!)
I also find the storytelling refreshing. I've never read anything like this one before. For that, I enjoyed my reading experience. :)
Overall, Everything is a good read. I definitely recommend this book, especially if you want a humorous yet insightful, short yet meaningful read.
I also find the storytelling refreshing. I've never read anything like this one before. For that, I enjoyed my reading experience. :)
-o-
Overall, Everything is a good read. I definitely recommend this book, especially if you want a humorous yet insightful, short yet meaningful read.