The novel is extraordinary--- I found none of the flaws in the novel that you did. I find your review to be superficial. Perhaps the literary quality of the novel is too sophisticated for your usual expectations? I read it in four days-- and began reading it a second time to savor the depth of meaning, the philosophy, the life lessons that are taught.
A good friend who is also a teacher of literature-- literary analysis, reading, and writing-- and an English Department chair, told me, when I mentioned the novel to her, that she loved it and that it's on her three year re-read list. A re-read list can keep the most meaningful works of literature you've encountered, in your memory, in your life. I'm going to create a re-read list-- and The Elegance of the Hedgehog will be on it.
The two narrators are supposed to be kindred spirits which is why they think the same and the ending is like that to show that Paloma learnt the lesson than Renee didn’t when her sister died. Basically the journey is more important than the end.
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this. I started this book a couple years ago; I think I got about 20-30 pages in, but I wasn't in the mood. I might pick it up again at some point, but it's not very high on my list.
Hi, I know exactly what you mean about the ending. It came totally unexpected and in a way ruined the book for me. To me the story had been going in a totally different direction and while I wasn't necessarily expecting a happily ever after, a more uplifting ending would have fit the story so much better, I think. Anyway, great review!
Alesha Linwell Thanks! I feel the same way. I wish that it had been more uplifting. It ending the way it did made everything that happened in the book feel like kind of a waste, or at least a letdown.
My Mum has this book and is always trying to palm it off to me. I'm always tempted because of the title and cover, but I know it would just sit on my book case unread. I really enjoyed this mini review and look forward to watching more during the year!
Thanks for this review! I’m only into chapter 2 and the going has been kind of strange so far. Agree with you, I’m not much of a philosophical person!!!
smallstepsbackwards I didn't know there was a film! Maybe I'll watch that. Maybe this was just the wrong book at the wrong time for me. My mom adored it too.
