The Measure

In Nikki Erlick’s debut novel, The Measure, the world wakes up one day to find mysterious wooden boxes delivered to every adult, each containing a string that indicates the precise length of the owner's life. Society is instantly divided by those with short strings and those with long. The story follows eight strangers as they navigate this new reality, exploring profound questions about fate, mortality, and how the knowledge of our lifespan affects how we choose to live. It examines the intense social, ethical, and personal repercussions of having this ultimate piece of information, forcing characters and readers alike to confront what truly matters when the clock is ticking.