61 pages • 2 hours read
The Elegance of the Hedgehog
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Book Brief
325
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • Contemporary
2006
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery follows the narratives of Renée, a secretive intellectual concierge, and Paloma, a contemplative 12-year-old girl, both of whom reside in a Parisian apartment building. Their lives are transformed by the arrival of Kakuro Ozu, a new tenant who befriends them and helps them find deeper meaning and connections in life. The novel includes references to self-harm and death by suicide.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
193,820 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Muriel Barbery's The Elegance of the Hedgehog is praised for its philosophical depth and rich characterization, particularly the introspective concierge and the precocious teenager. However, some criticize its slow pacing and occasional pretentiousness. The novel effectively balances wit and melancholy, appealing to readers who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven stories.
Who Should Read The Elegance of the Hedgehog?
Readers who enjoy philosophical musings and intricate character studies will be drawn to Muriel Barbery's The Elegance of the Hedgehog. Fans of works like Jostein Gaarder's Sophie's World or Yann Martel's Life of Pi will appreciate the novel's blend of intellectual exploration and nuanced storytelling.
193,820 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Paloma Josse
Paloma Josse
A 12-year-old girl living in a wealthy family, who expresses her philosophical thoughts through journal entries and grapples with her discontent with the superficiality around her.
Kakuro Ozu
Kakuro Ozu
A Japanese gentleman who moves into the building where Renée works and Paloma lives, bringing a fresh perspective that influences the development of both characters.
325
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • Contemporary
2006
Adult
18+ years
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