Book Review: 'The 5 People You Meet in Heaven'

If you want a book recommendation, welcome! I'd like to suggest this book to you and give my opinion on it. Sometimes a good book and a cup of tea can take you into an unknown world where you leave your own life behind for a while and live in another. This book did just that.

The 5 People You Meet in Heaven is a book based on an older man who has lived life through the lens of an unmotivated, bored, sad man. Written by Mitch Albom. Now, there will be a few spoilers in this review, but I won't give too much away. The aim here is for me to share my opinion on the book rather than narrate the book to you.

First, I'd like to tell you how I came about finding this book. I was feeling spiritual and eager to hear stories on the afterlife. This was more for my own peace of mind as I needed the reassurance that my dear friend who passed this year is in a better place. So, I searched the internet for books based on life after death or losing someone, and I found this book. I was hooked from the title so I knew I wanted to know more.

The book is lighthearted. Even though it may sound intense, it is a dream to read and a delight to finish. I found the experience of reading this book fascinating as it takes us through the life of 83-year-old Eddie. The life he lived brought him to a mundane day-to-day job that he never loved but felt was his only purpose now. The book begins at the end of his life and takes us on the journey where he discovers the afterlife. It isn't at all as you would imagine an afterlife to be and that is exactly what I loved.

The afterlife is the unknown and I loved reading a new interpretation—an almost wishful interpretation. We travel with Eddie to the five people he is destined to meet in heaven as we learn lessons through his life.

The book isn't purely about heaven or the concept of heaven, but rather the relationships you make in life and how they shape us into the person we are today. Connections with people you may not be aware of have an impact of our journey. It creates a world that we all can be a part of when we read it. Embedded in this book is a love story between Eddie and his wife, Marguerite. The relationship they share is beautiful and inspiring. The relationship isn't fantasised for the benefit of the book, it is pure and real. I find their love to be unique yet normal, and one that most people would love to have. A true romantic might know the kind of love I’m referring to. The subtle, but real one.

It is a short read, but has a big impact. I will definitely read this again when I need that little pick me up. As crazy as that might sound, reading about the afterlife gives me a sense of comfort. You will know what I mean if you do decide to read it.

I hope this review encourages you to give this book a go. Reviews can only do so much. If you want a full experience of the world described above, give it a read! If you still aren't sure, you can find the book online and see if it is something you would be interested in. I loved it. Thank you for reading my review.