I'd seen this book recommended in various places but hadn't explored its content in detail. It had an intriguing title and a cheery yellow cover, so I was keen to dive in.

And it was rather a surprise. The narrator is Death, and he introduces us to the various people he is meeting day by day.Through snapshots of their lives, we meet one person after another. There's someone who's led a full and happy life, someone who hasn't looked after themselves and is reaping the consequences, someone else whose life has been cut short by an accident or illness. Death listens to their stories but he doesn't judge or interfere, though he seems surprised that none of us are better prepared for the inevitable whenever it might come.

Gradually we learn more of Death himself. His name is Travis and he lives alone with a cat. One day he meets a young woman called Dalia who has a spirited daughter, Layla, who's eight. Travis goes against his rules and finds himself getting close to them. As there own tragic events unfold, he comes to understand what it is that makes life worth living.

It's a gentle, moving story (though slightly puzzling re Death/Travis and what he can and can't do). It doesn't tug at the heartstrings (too much) and ultimately celebrates the joy of being alive, the importance of being present in the moment, and recognising the wonder and power of the relationships we have with the people around us. I very much enjoyed itl