Book Review: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
When I first stumbled upon Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. The cover, a mesmerizing blend of colors and art reminiscent of digital landscapes, hinted at a world unlike any I had explored in literature before. I was drawn in by the promise of friendship and creative partnership against the backdrop of video game design, an arena I thought I had little to no connection to. But, dear friends, let me tell you—Zevin’s masterful narrative swept me off my feet, inviting me into a realm that transcended pixels and algorithms.
At its core, Tomorrow is an intricately woven tapestry of life, love, loss, and ambition—watching the evolution of Sam and Sadie, two childhood friends and creative partners, is compelling and devastating all at once. Set over three decades, the novel chronicles their ups and downs as they navigate the competitive world of video game creation. With every futile attempt, misguided ambition, and heartfelt reconciliation, the author delves into the complexities of their relationship, creating characters that are as real as the struggles they face.
Sam, a Jewish-Korean orphan, grapples with physical and emotional scars, while Sadie, with her own past of familial strife, brings a fire and brilliance that is both captivating and heartbreaking. Their collaborations and individual journeys are punctuated by the gaming world—a clever metaphor for life’s unpredictability. As they craft their blockbusters like Ichigo, their successes shine brightly, but not without the shadows of personal failure creeping in. Zevin encourages us to reflect on our own ambitions and connections, leading us to ponder: what does it mean to truly create?
The writing style is nothing short of beautiful; Zevin balances lyrical prose with the rawness of character development. It feels as though she’s sprinkled her storytelling with magic, engaging readers through rich dialogue and evocative imagery. I found myself particularly touched by one passage reflecting on friendship’s complexities: “Friendship, it turns out, may be the greatest love of all.” This line lingered with me long after I closed the book, encapsulating the essence of the relationships we forge and the narratives that shape our lives.
While some readers may find elements of the plot “mixed,” I relished each twist and turn, drawn into the intoxicating world that Zevin created—filled with real emotions and creativity. The exploration of identity, mental health, and love in its varied forms is handled with such care that it resonates deeply with anyone who has ever navigated personal and professional ambition.
If you’ve ever felt the thrill of possibility, the sting of heartbreak, or the ardent desire to create something meaningful, then Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a must-read. Whether you’re a lifelong gamer or someone who simply cherishes heartfelt storytelling, Zevin’s novel is a reminder of our shared human experience—a journey of connection and understanding. It left me reflecting on my own life’s narrative, and for that, I will forever be grateful. Dive into this enchanting world; you won’t be disappointed.
You can find Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow: A Novel here >>