Mitch Albom’s latest novel, titled “Twice,” invites readers to ponder the profound question of what life would look like if we had the opportunity to rewrite our past. Scheduled for release on October 7, 2025, the book tells the story of Alfie Logan, a man who discovers he possesses the unique ability to relive moments from his life.
In a compelling excerpt, the narrative unfolds through a mysterious notebook that reveals Alfie’s extraordinary power. The story begins in 1966 when an eight-year-old Alfie, living in a small village north of Mombasa, Kenya, faces the harsh realities of life as the son of missionaries. His experiences, marked by the loss of his mother to a sudden illness, shape the foundation of his journey.
Alfie recalls the day when he first discovered his unusual ability. After a morning spent playing alone, he arrives home only to find his mother gravely ill. The boy learns of her passing while he was lost in his childhood fantasies of being a superhero, wearing a red cape reminiscent of Superman. The emotional impact of this moment is seared into his memory, setting the stage for the exploration of his gift.
The narrative evolves as Alfie realizes that he can return to moments before his mother’s death, altering how he experiences loss. He finds himself in a surreal situation where he wakes up to discover his mother still alive, leading to a heart-wrenching conversation as she imparts wisdom about the nature of his gift.
She warns him that while he can revisit moments, he cannot change certain inevitable truths, such as mortality. Alfie’s mother tells him, “This is something you’re going to be able to do the rest of your life. Get second chances… But it won’t fix everything.” Her words resonate as a reminder of the weight of his ability, emphasizing the importance of cherishing experiences rather than merely correcting mistakes.
Despite the gravity of his power, the story reveals its limitations. Alfie’s journey illustrates that while he can alter his perception of events, he cannot prevent the inevitable. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a poignant exploration of grief, love, and acceptance.
In the wake of his mother’s passing, Alfie grapples with the complexities of his ability. He learns that sometimes, witnessing a loss can be as impactful as avoiding it, adding layers of depth to his understanding of life and relationships.
Albom, known for his emotionally resonant storytelling, masterfully blends themes of nostalgia, the complexity of human emotions, and the universal desire for second chances. “Twice” promises to be a thought-provoking read that challenges audiences to reflect on their own lives and the choices they make.
As the release date approaches, anticipation builds for what is sure to be another heartfelt exploration from the acclaimed author. Readers can pre-order the book from various retailers, eager to dive into Alfie’s extraordinary tale of love, loss, and the search for redemption.
