Dreamworld Book Reviews

The Nobodies Album is the 3rd novel by Carolyn Parkhurst, who also wrote The Dogs of Babel.

Octavia Frost is a bestselling novelist. Her latest project features rewrites of every last chapter in every book she’s ever written, called The Nobodies Album.

While en route to delivering the finished manuscript to her editor, Octavia catches a glimpse of a shocking newsreel. Milo, her famous musician son, has just been arrested for murdering his girlfriend.

Despite the estranged relationship she has with her son, Octavia can’t help but follow her motherly instincts and fly directly to Los Angeles to offer her support. Octavia also spends time reflecting on whether her family’s history led to Milo’s demise.

The first page of The Nobodies Album is beautifully written, and will immediately draw you in—all but demanding your undivided attention. My favorite quote in this book, by Octavia Frost:

But isn’t that the point—to write something that will last after the book has been put back on the shelf?

Yes, Octavia, absolutely.

The Nobodies Album is undoubtedly original. As a bonus, all the chapters from Octavia’s “The Nobodies Album” are dispersed throughout, and many reveal clues and details about Octavia’s family history. This “book within a book” is charming and fun.

Lastly, I’d like to mention that the characters are written so candidly, open, and honest—you can’t help but get emotionally involved. The author’s ability to write characters so intimately is truly a gift.

Carolyn Parkhurst has also written:

• The Dogs of Babel (2003)
• Lost and Found (2006)
• Harmony (2016)

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Last Updated on January 24, 2026 by Sarah Ann

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