Life After Life

In 'Life After Life' by Kate Atkinson, we follow Ursula Todd, who is born in 1910 and dies repeatedly, only to be reborn to live again and again. Each life presents her with choices and chances that shape history—both her own and the world’s. As she navigates the tumultuous events of the 20th century, will Ursula ever find a way to break the cycle of death? This thought-provoking narrative challenges the concepts of fate, free will, and the impact of individual lives. What if you could live countless lives—what lessons would you learn and what paths would you ultimately choose?

By Kate Atkinson

Published: 2014

"What if you could live your life over and over until you finally got it right?"

Life After LifeBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

"One of the best novels I've read this century. Kate Atkinson is a marvel. There aren't enough breathless adjectives to describe LIFE AFTER LIFE: Dazzling, witty, moving, joyful, mournful, profound."--Gillian Flynn, author of Gone Girl What if you could live again and again, until you got it right? On a cold and snowy night in 1910, Ursula Todd is born, the third child of a wealthy English banker and his wife. She dies before she can draw her first breath. On that same cold and snowy night, Ursula Todd is born, lets out a lusty wail, and embarks upon a life that will be, to say the least, unusual. For as she grows, she also dies, repeatedly, in any number of ways. Ursula's world is in turmoil, facing the unspeakable evil of the two greatest wars in history. What power and force can one woman exert over the fate of civilization -- if only she has the chance? Wildly inventive, darkly comic, startlingly poignant -- this is Kate Atkinson at her absolute best.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Life After Life

About the Author

K

Kate Atkinson

Kate Atkinson is a renowned British author known for her inventive narrative style and deep character exploration. She gained widespread recognition with her novel "Behind the Scenes at the Museum," which won the Whitbread Book of the Year Award. Atkinson's notable works include the acclaimed "Human Croquet," "Life After Life," and the Jackson Brodie detective series, which has been adapted for television. Her writing often blends elements of literary fiction with mystery and historical themes, showcasing her talent for intertwining complex plots with rich, multilayered characters.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Kate Atkinson
Published
January 2014
Publisher
Back Bay Books
ISBN
0316176494
Language
English
Pages
N/A
Genres
Historical FictionTime TravelFiction

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

The Time Traveler's WifeBook binding

The Time Traveler's Wife

Audrey Niffenegger

The Left Hand of DarknessBook binding

The Left Hand of Darkness

Ursula K. Le Guin

Cloud AtlasBook binding

Cloud Atlas

David Mitchell

The System of the WorldBook binding

The System of the World

Neal Stephenson

Built to SellBook binding

Built to Sell

John Warrillow

A Thousand Splendid SunsBook binding

A Thousand Splendid Suns

Khaled Hosseini

The Age of Surveillance CapitalismBook binding

The Age of Surveillance Capitalism

Shoshana Zuboff

BlindnessBook binding

Blindness

José Saramago

All-of-a-Kind FamilyBook binding

All-of-a-Kind Family

Sydney Taylor

A Wrinkle in TimeBook binding

A Wrinkle in Time

Madeleine L'Engle

All the Light We Cannot SeeBook binding

All the Light We Cannot See

Anthony Doerr

The Liars' ClubBook binding

The Liars' Club

Mary Karr

Brothers ForeverBook binding

Brothers Forever

Tom Sileo, Tom Manion

The 3 Secrets to Effective Time Investment: Achieve More Success with Less Stress : Foreword by Cal Newport, author of So Good They Can't Ignore YouBook binding

The 3 Secrets to Effective Time Investment: Achieve More Success with Less Stress : Foreword by Cal Newport, author of So Good They Can't Ignore You

Elizabeth Grace Saunders

If on a Winter's Night a TravellerBook binding

If on a Winter's Night a Traveller

Italo Calvino

BelovedBook binding

Beloved

Toni Morrison

Lincoln in the BardoBook binding

Lincoln in the Bardo

George Saunders

Finding MeBook binding

Finding Me

Viola Davis

Time TravelBook binding

Time Travel

James Gleick

Reinventing FireBook binding

Reinventing Fire

Amory B. Lovins, Rocky Mountain Institute

A Sound of Thunder and Other StoriesBook binding

A Sound of Thunder and Other Stories

Ray Bradbury

The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)Book binding

The Nickel Boys (Winner 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction)

Colson Whitehead

Foucault's PendulumBook binding

Foucault's Pendulum

Umberto Eco

The Neverending StoryBook binding

The Neverending Story

Michael Ende

11/22/63Book binding

11/22/63

Stephen King

Three Book Sebald SetBook binding

Three Book Sebald Set

W. G. Sebald

No Better TimeBook binding

No Better Time

Molly Knight Raskin

Oranges are Not the Only FruitBook binding

Oranges are Not the Only Fruit

Kathryn Simpson

What is the whatBook binding

What is the what

Dave Eggers

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.

View Collection
John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green's Book Recommendations

John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.

View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

View Collection
Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar's Book Recommendations

Sophie Bakalar is a distinguished author and venture capitalist known for her adept storytelling and insightful exploration of contemporary issues. Her debut novel received critical acclaim for its nuanced portrayal of complex characters and societal dynamics. In addition to her literary achievements, Bakalar is a co-founder of a successful venture firm, where she leverages her keen understanding of market trends and innovation. Her essays and articles, often featured in prominent publications, reflect her deep engagement with cultural and technological shifts. Bakalar's multifaceted career bridges the worlds of literature and entrepreneurship, making her a unique voice in both fields.

View Collection
Winston Churchill's Book Recommendations

Winston Churchill's Book Recommendations

Winston Churchill (1874-1965) was a British statesman, military leader, and author who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II, leading the country to victory against Nazi Germany. Renowned for his oratory skills, Churchill's speeches and radio broadcasts were a source of inspiration and morale for the British public during the war. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his numerous published works, including his six-volume account of World War II and his four-volume "A History of the English-Speaking Peoples." Besides his political and literary achievements, Churchill also authored novels, biographies, and essays, contributing significantly to 20th-century literature. His legacy endures through his impactful writings and steadfast leadership during one of history's most tumultuous periods.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
David Sabatini's Book Recommendations

David Sabatini's Book Recommendations

David Sabatini is a renowned cell biologist whose pioneering research has significantly advanced our understanding of cell growth and metabolism. He is best known for his discovery of the mTOR pathway, a critical regulator of cell growth, which has implications in cancer, diabetes, and aging. Sabatini has authored numerous influential papers, contributing extensively to the field of molecular biology. He has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Paul Marks Prize for Cancer Research. Sabatini's work continues to inspire and drive forward research in cellular and molecular biology.

View Collection
Sarah Ockwell-Smith's Book Recommendations

Sarah Ockwell-Smith's Book Recommendations

Sarah Ockwell-Smith is a parenting expert and author specializing in gentle parenting, with books like The Gentle Sleep Book and The Gentle Parenting Book. Her approach emphasizes empathy, connection, and respect in parenting, advocating for a more nurturing style rather than traditional discipline methods. Ockwell-Smith has a background in psychology and child development and is known for her evidence-based, compassionate advice to parents. Her work has helped shape the growing movement toward more mindful and gentle parenting techniques. Sarah continues to be a trusted resource for parents seeking to raise emotionally secure children.

View Collection
Diana Gabaldon's Book Recommendations

Diana Gabaldon's Book Recommendations

Diana Gabaldon is the author of the bestselling Outlander series, which blends historical fiction, romance, and time travel. Her series has been adapted into a hit TV show, bringing her work to a wider audience. Gabaldon’s rich, meticulously researched narratives and complex characters have earned her a dedicated global fanbase. With her vivid storytelling and attention to historical detail, she has become one of the most prominent authors in the historical fiction genre. Gabaldon’s books have been translated into dozens of languages and remain popular worldwide.

View Collection
Colin Firth's Book Recommendations

Colin Firth's Book Recommendations

Colin Firth is a British actor known for his roles in films such as The King’s Speech, Pride and Prejudice, and A Single Man. Firth’s portrayal of King George VI in The King’s Speech earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He is widely respected for his ability to bring depth and nuance to a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to complex historical figures. Firth is also a passionate advocate for human rights and environmental causes, using his platform to support charitable organizations. His combination of talent and activism has made him one of the most admired actors in the film industry.

View Collection
Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations

Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations

Mindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.

View Collection

What if you could live your life over and over until you finally got it right?

Life After Life

By Kate Atkinson

Frequently Asked Questions