“The Invisible Life of Addie Larue” by V.E. Schwab poses thought-provoking questions to readers everywhere. One of which being, “What is a person if not the marks they leave behind?” A question future generations will ask, making the novel a new classic.

The novel first takes place in France in 1714, with a young woman, Adeline Larue. The reader is given descriptions of her village, Villion, and the varying characters that live within it. Adeline appears to be an adventurous girl who wishes to travel and live life to the fullest, rather than settle down, marry and be stuck in the same place her whole life. As she desperately tries to avoid this future, she makes a deal with a god of darkness, ultimately changing her life forever. She is forgotten by all, stuck being invisible by her decision of desperation for centuries. Until nearly 300 years later, when she runs into a young man in a quaint bookstore that remembers her. 

The novel describes the cruelty of life and the challenges humans will face to escape a life not wanted. The novel proceeds through centuries, covering intense, controversial topics that are important for future generations. The storytelling is not only conveyed by beautifully written literature, but also art. Schwab ties in elements of art from each century the character endures.

The book covers important, impactful topics that come as a shock to readers while reading the book. The paradox between life and death and light and dark are major themes that become more complex. As time goes on, these themes that once seemed black and white, become a mix of confusion and conflict in what is right and wrong. It spawns the idea that “‘Nothing is all good or all bad.’ That ‘Life is so much messier than that.’”

The novel brings light to issues experienced in real life. The dark side of perfectionism, is addressed, demonstrating the idea that things are not always what they seem. The concept of loneliness and its effects on one’s self-thoughts, love and life is also addressed, becoming a relatable topic to anyone who has ever felt alone with no one to turn to. 

As time goes on, schools continue to teach novels that have important messages, themes and life lessons for future generations. “The Invisible Life of Addie Larue” will be a classic for future generations. Thanks to its literary elements, inclusion of art and important, necessary topics, “The Invisible Life of Addie Larue” is a captivating story that will never be forgotten.