A review by hippolyta_vi
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

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

4.5

For anyone who's ever had a best friend that they love with all their heart and would do anything for, but ultimately is the same person you compare yourself to, possibly in an unhealthy way, this book is for you. 

This story is episodic, driven by characters vignettes not a grand adventure. Many people have said it's boring, but it's anything but. Ferrante pulls the reader into the lives of Lenù and Lila and their home town. You are an onlooker, rooting for characters while simultaneously hating them. Every character and their relationships to one another are complex and real. 

I can't wait to see what the rest of the series has in store. 
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