The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery is one of the most intellectual, funniest and brilliant books I’ve ever read! The book is a bestseller and it’s translated into many languages for a reason! A movie based on the book has been also released.
Book review of the Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery
First of all, I got it as a present from one of my friends (in French, of course, reading a book in its original version is always the best!). Needless to say that I started reading it immediately and couldn’t stop! The story is about Renee, a 54-years old concierge, living in an aristocratic building in Paris and pretending to be the absolute cliche of a typical French concierge.
However, in reality, Renee is very intelligent and she absorbs classics and philosophical readings with voracity. Her existence is considered being boring until the day, a Japanese gentleman moves into her building and invites her for a dinner. They have a real ”click” and share the same passion for art, cinema, literature and enjoy each other’s company.
On the other hand, there is a second layer in the book. It is about a 12-years old girl – Paloma, who is very smart and sensitive and who is determined to commit a suicide. She has a diary and puts in writing all her thoughts as well as writes the date and the way she will commit her own suicide. Paloma and Renee discover by accident that they both share the same love for cats and that’s how they start to talk to each other.
In a word, here comes the moment to tell you the end, but I won’t reveal it!
Enjoy your time with The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery over a cup of thee!
Thanks for reading!