The Reminders

Val Emmich
Star Rating
★★★
Reviewer's Rating
Nov 7, 2017

The Reminders is a story about loss, friendship, and recovery. It’s told in the alternating perspectives of Gavin, a man in his late thirties whose partner has recently died; and Joan, a 10 year old girl whose parents are old college friends of Gavin's.

Shortly after Gavin's partner dies he becomes overwhelmed by the reminders of their life together and throws their belongings into the yard and sets them on fire. A neighbor takes a video of it and it makes the news. Joan's parents happen to see this and insist that Gavin come and stay with them for a while.

Joan can recall every detail of her life and can replay entire days, like watching a movie, in her mind. A sweet friendship forms between Gavin and Joan as she shares her very detailed memories of Gavin's partner. In exchange, Gavin helps Joan write a song for a contest. While doing this they help each other deal with personal insecurities and find new ways to look at their lives.

While a little predictable, The Reminders is also funny, has interesting characters and enjoyable.

Reviewed by Catherine G.
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