OVERVIEW
This is the second audiobook by Melinda French Gates that I have listened to. This is very emotional, real, and personal. It is a short but powerful book.
This book really showcases how emotionally aware Melinda really is. She gets that she came from privilege and was fortunate to have the opportunities in her life. Interestingly, she is very spiritual as a lapsed Roman Catholic, and she shares poems, quotes, and inspirations from her favorite writers (including Malala's father) throughout the book. Some of it worked for me, and some didn't. But it was motivational and beautiful.
OVERALL REVIEW: 5.0 stars
Writing: 5.0 stars
Melinda writes beautifully with a rawness and personal depth that is just spectacular.
Narration: 5.0 stars
Melinda is an excellent narrator. I prefer that memoirs be read by the person who wrote the book; she does an incredible job narrating her life.
Character Arc: 5.0 stars
The character arc is told fairly chronologically, starting with her childhood and ending post-divorce and post-COVID.
Memorable: 5.0 stars
The story of her best friend, John, passing away was so powerful and beautiful. What a friendship.
She shared the "ring theory" to best assist those in a life crisis due to illness, death, or another life challenge. It is brilliant.
Entertaining/Educational: 5.0 stars
Melinda shares personal stories that are so touching and beautiful, such as the "nail polish incident", "a good enough parent", and becoming a grandmother.
She discusses the difficult breakup of her marriage and subsequent divorce. If you expect her to "spill the tea", this is not the book for you.
The best takeaway from Melinda is to always trust your inner voice. If you don't hear your inner voice, find it! Also, after an event (good, bad, or ugly), start your focus on the next day. It is a way to stay in the present!
Yes, Melinda, you are on point!
Book cover: 4.0 stars
Boring.
Book title: 5.0 stars
Perfect!
HIGHLY recommend
STATISTICS
Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) borrow: audiobook
The Next Day by Melinda French Gates
Macmillan Audio
3 hours, 44 minutes
Release date of 4/15/2025
INFORMATIONAL LINKS
TRIGGER WARNINGS
Death, pregnancy, divorce, infidelity, cancer
Happy reading,
Dorothea 💜
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