Region of Waterloo Library discussion

What is your first reaction to the The Light Between Oceans? How did it make you feel?

I read the book last year and it was one of my favourites. I'm attempting to re-read it again for the discussions here, but I'm finding it difficult now that I know how the story plays out. I find myself on edge, wanting them to make different choices. The first read through was much easier, I could relate more to Tom's struggle.

Christine wrote: "I read the book last year and it was one of my favourites. I'm attempting to re-read it again for the discussions here, but I'm finding it difficult now that I know how the story plays out. I find ..."

That's interesting... it sounds like two very different reading experiences. Do you often find rereading challenging because the foresight makes you second guess the characters? Or is there something about the characters in this book that enhances that experience?

I just returned this to the library. Couldn't get past the first chapter. I read too many reviews beforehand, wanting to know what I was getting myself into, and even though a lot of them were full of praise for the book, I just can't read this right now. Isabel's miscarriages dredge up too many sad memories for me. I think it likely fits very well with April's theme of people making foolish choices though.
I find it unbelievable that anyone who had felt the pain of losing a baby would inflict that suffering on another woman. I don't buy Isabel's line of reasoning for why she kept the baby in the boat (the mother must be lost at sea). How could anyone be that selfish? And why couldn't her husband man up and talk some sense into her? Then again, maybe living on a remote island truly made them lose their marbles. That's just my initial reaction. I don't plan to finish it any time soon. With an opening like that I suspect it would just lead to a lot of misery for everyone involved, including me the reader.
I hope I haven't offended anyone who really enjoyed the book. I think it's just my own past experience darkening my perception of it.

Leanne wrote: "I just returned this to the library. Couldn't get past the first chapter. I read too many reviews beforehand, wanting to know what I was getting myself into, and even though a lot of them were full..."

Leanne, your reactions are entirely valid. I'm so sorry for your loss and having read it, I think you made a wise decision. It's a heart wrenching read. There's a sweet resolution, but it's not enough really to overcome the very sad circumstances of the story.

RWL wrote: "Christine wrote: "I read the book last year and it was one of my favourites. I'm attempting to re-read it again for the discussions here, but I'm finding it difficult now that I know how the story ..."

I haven't reread many books, other than my very favourites, which tend to be the classics. With those, I find there's always more to discover in the writing.

I have read this, so I am not going to reread. I tend not to reread. I remember feeling quite sad and weighted down by the story. So right now, I'm not even tempted to revisit it.

Thank you very much everyone for your thoughtful replies and responses to the book.

I have a feeling this might not have been the best book choice. For that reason, I think that I will start the discussion for the next title now. Everyone is still welcome to post to this board, but for those of you who prefer the option, you can skip ahead.