The Midnight Library follows Nora Seed, a 35-year-old woman who feels trapped in a life filled with regret and disappointment. After a series of devastating events, she attempts to end her life but instead finds herself in the Midnight Library, a limbo between life and death. Here, guided by her childhood librarian Mrs. Elm, Nora can explore countless versions of her life by entering books that represent different paths she could have taken. As she navigates these alternate lives, Nora must confront her regrets, understand the complexities of choice, and discover what truly makes a life worth living. The novel delves into themes of regret, the meaning of life, and the importance of living in the present[2][3][5].
The Covenant of Water, set in Kerala on South India's Malabar Coast, spans the years 1900 to 1977. The novel revolves around three generations of an Orthodox Saint Thomas Christian family, particularly the life of Mariamma, a twelve-year-old girl who marries a 40-year-old widower and becomes the matriarch known as Big Ammachi. The family is plagued by 'The Condition', a mysterious affliction where at least one member of each generation dies by drowning. The story intertwines with the life of Digby Kilgore, a Scottish doctor, and explores themes of family, faith, love, loss, and medical progress. The novel is a testament to the hardships of past generations and the interconnectedness of lives through time and space[2][4][5].
This novel by Niall Williams is a poignant and enchanting portrayal of life in the small village of Faha. The story revolves around Noel Crowe, a 17-year-old former seminary student, and his encounters with Christy, an electrical worker with a long-lost love. The narrative delves into the community's idiosyncrasies, traditions, and the profound changes brought about by the introduction of electricity. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present, recognizing the beauty and joy in everyday moments, and the role of stories in shaping our lives. The book is characterized by its lyrical prose, meandering narrative, and a deep appreciation for the human experience[2][3][5].
The COVID pandemic may be over, but the experience continues to influence society and investments. Equity portfolio manager Cheryl Frank discusses lessons learned from the pandemic with Mike Gitlin, noting that several industries and themes remain in flux, from commercial real estate and health care to labor market dynamics. Within health care, Cheryl discusses how regulatory changes could impact the industry significantly given the government’s role as the largest payer. She also shares insights from her widely read research paper, “The Girlfriends’ Guide to Stocks,” which compares investing to dating and highlights elements of a healthy long-term relationship. If you’re interested in learning about navigating crises and finding long-term investment opportunities, this episode is for you.
#CapGroupGlobal
For full disclosures go to capitalgroup.com/global-disclosures
For our latest insights, practice management ideas and more, subscribe to Capital Ideas at getcapitalideas.com. If you’re based outside of the U.S., visit capitalgroup.com for Capital Group insights.
Watch our latest podcast, Conversations with Mike Gitlin, on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbKcvAV87057bIfkbTAp-dgqaLEwa9GHi
This content is published by Capital Client Group, Inc.
U.K. investors can view a glossary of technical terms here: https://www.capitalgroup.com/individual-investors/gb/en/resources/how-to-invest/glossary.html
To stay informed, follow us
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/capital-group/posts/?feedView=all
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapitalGroup/videos
Follow Mike Gitlin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikegitlin/
About Capital Group
Capital Group was established in 1931 in Los Angeles, California, with the mission to improve people’s lives through successful investing. With our clients at the core of everything we do, we offer carefully researched products and services to help them achieve their financial goals.
Learn more: capitalgroup.com
Join us: capitalgroup.com/about-us/careers.html
Copyright ©2025 Capital Group
Capital Ideas Podcast 
