Nikki Erlick describes an interesting scenario in her addictive debut novel, The Measure. The setting is an alternative reality much like our own, but one in which everyone on earth over the age 22 suddenly receives a personal box. The mysterious boxes contain a seemingly simple object that is discovered to have magical predictive qualities. Within this framework, Erlick is able to examine some basic life questions and themes. Some of the more prominent of these are: adaptation to change, familial obligations, prejudice, political manipulation, honor/integrity, and the perceived value of an individual life. The author provides multiple perspectives on these topics with numerous characters and narrators, but the novel avoids feeling too crowded or confusing. There is a fair amount of proselytizing and repetition, and true scientists might bristle at the suspension of disbelief required. The Measure is a timely, thought-provoking work that blends genres in an innovative way. Based on this book, Nikki Erlick could easily become a fresh new voice in contemporary fiction.

Thanks to the author, William Morrow and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

The Measure was a fascinating read of how a very personal item in an individual’s life can be made a very public and damaging tool in the hands of a few. As much of the mystery is kept as revealed about how the Measure came into being, even where it came from. It affects every person on the planet, and therefore everything pertaining to that person; relationships, jobs, goals. This book makes you stop and think about your own measure, and how precious every minute is.

Given a chance, would you want to know how long you will live? Erlick explores this tantalizing question. Worldwide small wooden boxes appear on everyone’s doorstep. Inside are indestructible strings of varying lengths which predict an individual’s lifespan. Would you open your box? The boxes bring about political and societal change. With well developed characters, compelling details, and heart, Erlick imagines a world transformed. Perfect for book clubs. Highly recommended.

This one was bitter sweet from beginning to end and one of those books you just don't want to put down. Nikki takes us on a journey through what society might look like if we all suddenly knew how long we were going to live. I adored every single character and the story flowed easily between their lives.

This is going to be a great book club pick and is sure to prompt many deep and fascinating discussions!

I absolutely loved this book. The premise grabbed me and it didn't let go. So glad it was featured on the Galley Club because I don't think I would have picked it up on my own, but now I'm ready to recommend it to my patrons. Will be a fabulous book for library book discussion groups

I read this along with the Library Love Fest Galley Club. It is a wonderful book and I look forward to sharing it and recommending it to friends and patrons.

QUICK TAKE: really liked the concept (everyone receives a mysterious box with a string, the length of which dictates how long you are expected to live), and execution was solid. I think the author raises a lot of interesting questions and I've already had a couple interesting conversations with friends and family about the book, which makes it a solid recommend for me.

Read in February but The Measure will be on of my favorites for the year. The Immortalists meets Dear Edward. A great set-up that really resonates in a time when so much has changed (the idea of before the strings v. after). I cared about the characters and loved how the author weaved their stories together. It wrecked me but I'll think about the ideas for a long time. Recommend!

The Measure
by Nikki Erlick
Pub Date: June 28, 2022
Told through multiple perspectives, The Measure introduces an unforgettable cast of characters whose lives weave and interlock with one another upon the arrival of the strings: a doctor who cannot save himself, a couple who thought they didn’t have to rush, best friends whose dreams are forever entwined, pen-pals finding refuge in the unknown, and a politician whose string becomes a powder keg in an increasingly turbulent world.
Thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for the ARC. Books like The Measure come along rarely....a book which will linger with me over the coming days, weeks, months, and probably years. A book that changes your thoughts on life and makes you question how you are living, whether you are making the most of the time you may have left or wasting it away.
I will recommend this book!
4 stars

I have been thinking about this book since I started it. Would I look at my string? Would I want to know about my family’s string? This book is incredibly thought provoking, heartfelt, and beautiful. You’ll find yourself grieving and loving along with each character.