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Depth: the last 1/2 star
I gave the book 4.5 stars and I'd like to discuss the last half star. To me the middle of the book was a little too perfect, especially the Christmas scene. It was long and it just worked out too well. Additionally, I never really felt Henry's pain from time traveling, all the negative experiences were merely mentioned and not experienced. I thought that due to this there was a little bit of loss in the depth of character for Henry.
I understand what you are feeling. Although, I wanted to know what Henry did during some of his episodes. Those events are only mentioned when it relates to the storyline, but never delved into. Other than that, they hold no importance.
Niffenegger addresses the negatives of time traveling throughout the novel when necessary. She explains the dangers, what Henry has to do in that state. Or when he visited certain negative events in the past, for example: that night with Ingrid.
When Henry is time traveling, Niffengger purposefully focuses on Clare. She takes it the hardest. Because what if he dies in that time that he's traveled to? She is either anxious, afraid, annoyed, angry, or all, etc.
And as for the Christmas scene, I think I need to re-read the book. :^) This is a bit scatter-brained reply...
I really enjoyed this book. I get why you'd feel cheated being deprived of some of Henry's negative experiences in time travel, but I think they-- like pretty much everything and everyone in this book-- are understandably viewed only in the context of the Clare/Henry relationship. Its a love story not an adventure, is mostly character driven rather than plot driven.
I guess what I'm saying is that the depth is in the exploration of the relationship and a lot of stuff that could have been otherwise included (I for one could have lived with a bit more development of the other characters) was sacrificed to this end.
Overall, it really, really worked for me (even the christmas scenes), and though I don't consider myself a romantic person I bawled hardcore at the end.
It should be said I was in the throes of a long distance relationship when I read it, so I guess that coloured my perceptions somewhat... don't read stories of unrequited love when you're going long distance!
