A review by a_picara
The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

emotional funny hopeful reflective sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

An introspective novel, this book starts quite slow. The onslaught of references throughout, combined with the solipsistic musings of the two focal characters feel at time as if the book is trying to be more clever than it is. The deep considerations of language and grammar ring false, or over-stated, until you remember that the original book is in French, and that French grammar is convoluted and impressive. While the beginning is slow, once the three main characters actually start interacting with each other, this novel becomes quite good. The interactions between the characters allows them to get outside of their heads, and to leave emotional impact on each other and the reader.