Monday, March 15, 2010

52 Books in 52 Weeks - Week 10: The Elegance of the Hedgehog

This unusual narrative is told from the point of view of the two main characters, Renee and Paloma. Originally written in French, the story tells of the loneliness of the two characters, who consider themselves far more intelligent than those around them. Partway through the book, the two characters find each other and begin a friendship. This is a bittersweet story of finding true friendship and of learning to accept and live life as it is. It is heady reading - there are many references to philosophy and art that could derail you if you are not patient - the author truly does tell you what you need to know in order to follow the story.  I found this book a slow read - the characters really drove me nuts with their superior airs and condemnation of their family and neighbors as not worthy of their time or consideration. It is not one that I would recommend to others and I am puzzled as to why it made the New York Times best seller list. Maybe I'll have a better read next week! So, what have you read lately?

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