What do readers think of Time Travel for Beginners by Jaclyn Moriarty? Write your own review.

It was a little too long and I lost interest in places. Really liked the idea of the time travel and like that you were left hanging was time travel real, was the story part of the book she wrote.

What a fun book! I loved the premise of "Time Travel for Beginners", having long been fascinated by the idea (and possibility?) of time travel. As the agency's customers were asked, when and where do you want to go, I found myself trying to answer that same question. So many possibilities! (I can see why the staff and many customers wanted to travel so often!) I do admit that if the Time Travel Agency existed by where I live I would definitely want to check it out!

The story was a bit confusing at times but everything was neatly connected eventually, with a few surprises thrown in. At the heart of it all were the relationships of the characters, which drove the story.

I found this to be a very satisfying read. This book could easily be a springboard for book club discussions about so many things, besides, of course, the "what if" and "if only" of time travel.

For those who like time travel stories, Time Travel for Beginners is a worthy addition to the genre. Imagine that time travel to the past can be performed with no effect on the present, and that this is all done in a low key fashion in a walk-in store. There is plenty of personal drama with parenting, romance, and sibling rivalry. Lots of self-doubt and wondering whether one can trust one's own memories.

There are a number of characters, and at times things seem confusing and contradictory, but it ultimately makes sense.

I really enjoyed Time Travel for Beginners by Jaclyn Moriarty. Admittedly, the beginning was a little challenging for me, which feels common with other time travel stories I've read. I am glad I stuck with it because everything eventually came together in a satisfying way.

What I connected with most was the relationship between the protagonist and her daughter. A lot of the social situations and awkward moments from growing up felt very real and brought back a surprising amount of nostalgia. The characters felt emotionally believable even when the plot became complicated, and this kept me coming back for more.

I was also relieved that the story committed fully to its premise instead of taking an easier way out with the ending. The final twists felt meaningful and earned. Even when I assumed part of the reveal early on, I still enjoyed seeing how everything unfolded.

Time Travel for Beginners by Jaclyn Moriarty is a wonderfully imaginative and emotionally layered story that blends whimsy, heart, and thoughtful observations about human connection. Moriarty's writing style feels warm and inviting, with characters that quickly become engaging and memorable.

What stood out most was the balance between the playful concept of time travel and the deeper emotional themes running underneath the story. Rather than relying solely on science-fiction mechanics, the novel seems far more interested in relationships, choices, and the ripple effects people have on one another.

The storytelling has a quirky charm that makes the reading experience feel unique and cozy while still delivering emotional depth. Fans of character-driven speculative fiction and unconventional family stories will likely find a lot to love here.

Thank you to BookBrowse & NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Time Travel for Beginners is a quirky book about The Time Travel Agency in Sydney, Australia where customers can select a destination in the distant past to visit either fully or partially with the caveat that their actions will not change the future. Teddy, Jade and Anna provide different points of view throughout the novel. While I do tend to enjoy this style of writing, that I first recall from reading The Joy Luck Club. I am not a fan of the epistolary segments, which for me is overused in contemporary literature.
Overall this is a charming book filled with life lessons that remind us to live our lives and enjoy each moment.

I enjoyed reading Time Traveler's for Beginners. It was my type of book. The time travel agency is a real storefront with tasty baked goods. The employees try to help customers choose their adventure. Some are looking for fun; others are trying to return to the past to fix the present. I liked delving into the characters' histories. The time travel was portrayed in a realistic, somewhat believable manner. I recommend this book to anyone interested in our need to revisit and try to change the past.

I requested this book to review as I appreciate that Time Travel could be possible, and I enjoy reading about different theories. However, I was slightly disappointed that the novel is more about family, friendship and relationships than it is about Time Travel.

Once the Time Travel aspect was explored in more detail – can't change the present by going back, traveling creates another timeline, alternative universe – I found it more interesting. The middle of the book tends to drag, but there is a good 'twist' towards the end.

This book was enjoyable for the most part but the title is misleading to those who want to read a novel more about Time Travel, not mainly about relationships.