I love books where the author steps outside conventional construction and executes it well. Non-linear story-telling is not for everyone, and I’m sure some readers will find this a very difficult book to read. But Henry’s life is non-linear, so what Ms. Niffengegger has done here is create a reading experience that parallels the experience of being — and living with — Henry, the time traveler.

It’s not until about a third of the way through the book that we meet Henry and his wife, Clare, in the present time. They meet for the first time, but have loved each other for years. Such is the nature of a man whose genetic make-up causes him to snap from one time and place to another uncontrollably. Henry often finds himself in familiar places, but at random times in the past or future. We experience this phenomenon as he gets to know Clare from the age of six, occasionally appearing in her life for a few hours, at different ages in his own linear timeline. It’s confusing, but it’s a fun puzzle to figure out. But it takes work. If you want a book that guides you effortlessly through the story, this is decidedly not your book. But if you relish the puzzle and enjoy being off-balance, then you (like me) will love this read.

Yes, it’s too long, and there are times when I will admit to skimming through to get to the next important scene, but I can forgive that. I can only imagine how difficult it was for the author to keep it all straight and weave the story together in this format. Kudos to her. For readers — be patient, keep an open mind, and have fun with it.

I suggested this book to my book club, without reading it first, for a special topic of “books that were made into movies.” Next up will be watching the movie to see how the filmmaker tried to tell this story on screen. A daunting task, for sure. Should be interesting.