A Journey to Avalon: Reflecting on The Other Side of Now
There’s something undeniably captivating about the idea of alternate realities—what if each choice we made opened up a new door, a new life? This is the intriguing premise of The Other Side of Now by Paige Harbison, a book that grabbed my attention not just with its plot, but with the profound questions it poses about life and love. As I dove into this heartfelt read, I found myself both enchanted and reflective, making it one of my standout reads of the year so far.
At its core, the novel follows Meg "Meggie" Bryan, a soap opera star living a seemingly perfect life. Yet, beneath the glitzy surface of Hollywood lies turbulence—career uncertainties, relationship doubts, and the constant pressure to conform. On her thirtieth birthday, she takes an impulsive leap of faith and heads to Avalon, Ireland, a place tied to her past and dreams. What transpires next is a fantastical journey through an alternate reality where she has forged a different life with friends, a tumultuous relationship with Cillian, and, most importantly, a distinct version of herself.
Harbison deftly weaves heavier themes, such as grief and self-discovery, into the narrative without allowing them to overshadow the warmth and humor that permeate the story. I was particularly struck by Meg’s gradual realization that life’s most precious moments aren’t always the grand ones—we often miss the beauty in the everyday when we get too caught up in our aspirations. The heartfelt quote, “Out of all the lives I might have, I believe I can make this the one that feels right,” encapsulates this transformative journey beautifully. It resonated with me deeply, evoking a self-reflection on how I navigate my own life choices.
The setting of Avalon is practically a character in itself, almost magical in its representation. While it may not exist on the compass of Ireland, the name evokes Arthurian legends—places of mystery and paradise. Through Harbison’s evocative prose, Avalon transforms into a lush backdrop where Meg starts to shed her glamorous but hollow Hollywood existence. I could almost feel the fresh Irish air and hear the whispers of nature as Meg learns to embrace the slow-paced life. The imagery was compelling and had me daydreaming about my own travels to such enchanting locales someday.
However, I would caution prospective readers: don’t enter this book expecting typical romance tropes. While there are romantic elements, this novel lands more firmly in the contemporary fiction category, focusing on personal evolution over romantic escapades. Meg’s relationships, particularly with Cillian, felt chaotic, leaving me wishing for a stronger emotional anchor between them. Additionally, some plot points—like the quick resolution at the end—left me wanting more depth and closure.
The Other Side of Now is a poignant exploration of choices and the lives we could lead, making it an engaging summer read for those looking for a blend of introspection and ambiance. Harbison’s writing invites readers to reflect on their own lives, challenging us to appreciate the small moments that often slip by unnoticed. For anyone seeking a thought-provoking, albeit light-hearted narrative, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It’s a gentle reminder to cherish the present, a wonderfully relevant message in our fast-paced world.
So, grab your copy, maybe a cup of tea, and let Meg’s journey inspire you—Avalon awaits!