Audrey Niffenegger's The Time Traveler's Wife is widely praised for its unique narrative structure and emotional depth. Reviewers commend the compelling love story and complex characters. However, some criticize the pacing and find the time travel mechanics confusing. Overall, it's appreciated for its originality and evocative writing.

Readers who enjoy The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger typically savor intricate love stories with a twist of science fiction and time travel. Fans of Outlander by Diana Gabaldon and The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, who appreciate deep character development and emotional narratives, will find this book equally enchanting.

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger tells the love story of Clare Abshire and Henry DeTamble, who suffers from a condition that causes him to involuntarily time travel. The novel alternates between their perspectives, using a non-linear plot to explore themes of fate, free will, and the lasting impact of grief, while chronicling their relationship amidst Henry's uncontrollable disappearances. Sensitive topics include loss and trauma.

Romantic / Bittersweet / Mysterious / Emotional / Melancholic

- Audrey Niffenegger wrote The Time Traveler's Wife in a series of disjointed scenes that she later organized into a cohesive narrative, mirroring the non-linear nature of time travel in the story.
- Before gaining popularity, The Time Traveler's Wife was initially turned down by 25 literary agents before finding its publisher, demonstrating the challenges of bringing innovative narratives to the market.
- In an interesting case of life imitating art, Audrey Niffenegger herself was a visual artist, and she illustrated some editions of her book with her own artwork, emphasizing her dual talent in both writing and illustrating.

**Henry DeTamble**  
A man with a peculiar genetic disorder that causes him to involuntarily travel through time, experiencing events across his life in a non-linear sequence. His adventurous spirit and love for music contrast with the challenges of maintaining relationships while navigating his unpredictable existence.

**Clare Abshire**  
The steadfast and patient partner of a time traveler, known for her unwavering love and determination despite the complexities brought on by her husband's unpredictable absences. Her deep bond with Henry showcases her resilience and hope throughout their unusual relationship.

**Richard DeTamble**  
A talented violinist struggling with the aftermath of a family tragedy, he grapples with his grief and strained relationship with his son. Later, he finds solace and redemption through the birth of his granddaughter, Alba.

**Alba DeTamble**  
The daughter of Henry and Clare, who shares her father's genetic condition of involuntary time travel. Despite the challenges posed by her abilities, she represents a source of hope and continuity for her family.

Audrey Niffenegger

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Time Traveler's Wife reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Time Traveler's Wife | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Time Traveler's Wife and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Time Traveler's Wife Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Time Traveler's Wife Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Man Out of Time”

Part 1, Chapters 1-7 

The Time Traveler's Wife Part 1, Chapters 1-7  Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 8-14

The Time Traveler's Wife Part 1, Chapters 8-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “A Drop in a Bowl of Milk”

Part 2, Chapters 15-21

The Time Traveler's Wife Part 2, Chapters 15-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 22-29

The Time Traveler's Wife Part 2, Chapters 22-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 30-38

The Time Traveler's Wife Part 2, Chapters 30-38 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 39-43

The Time Traveler's Wife Part 2, Chapters 39-43 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, “A Treatise on Longing”

Part 3 The Time Traveler's Wife Part 3 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Time Traveler's Wife Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Time Traveler's Wife Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Time Traveler's Wife Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Time Traveler's Wife Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Time Traveler's Wife Essay Topics

The Time Traveler's Wife

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Time Traveler's Wife?

Reading Age

Book Details