Comments on: Book Review: The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

By: Maria Celina

Maria Celina — Tue, 11 May 2010 08:05:21 +0000

Similar to previous commenters who almost gave up on the book in the beginning, I had trouble getting through it, because of the heavy style of writing. I had to read though each page slower than I would with a novel that may not be as philosophical. However, the journey was worth it, because I truly enjoyed the story. Perhaps my mood matched the need to read this book, because after I finished, I felt better. The message behind it was straight-forward, and underneath all that articulate writing lay a very simple message about life being beautiful.

By: sheistoofondofbooks

sheistoofondofbooks — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 02:35:51 +0000

You make a great point, Harvee, and I really appreciate it – we each have our own interpretation of a book; as readers we bring our own experience to the way the book reads for us. Thank you!

By: Harvee

Harvee — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 04:35:02 +0000

I enjoyed reading this book a lot and couldn’t help but think that the author was making pointed criticisms of French manners and customs, and that Rene and Paloma just didn’t go along with it. They had that in common and only the Japanese gentleman could understand them both.

I love when a book is open to so many different interpretations, all of them valid!

By: Marieke

Marieke — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:23:08 +0000

I agree — slow beginning, hidden gems, and a smashing ending! However I found the writing too annoyingly pretentious for my taste.

By: Serena (Savvy Verse & Wit)

Serena (Savvy Verse & Wit) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:50:11 +0000

Sounds like an interesting book, but since it takes a while to get into, I will have to pass on it for now.

By: zibilee

zibilee — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:54:06 +0000

I’m glad that you ended up liking it after all! I have heard such good things about this book and I am waiting to get my hands on a copy of it. Maybe I will see it under the tree!

By: diane

diane — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:59:08 +0000

I’m glad you perservered as well, and I got to enjoy this wonderful review. I purchased this book this summer, and it’s still unread (why do we buy books, we must have and then let them set starring us in the face?? LOL

By: 3m.michelle

3m.michelle — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:12:12 +0000

I started this one and loved it but then had to take it back to the library. I ended up buying the book but haven’t got to it yet. Glad you liked it!

By: Stacy

Stacy — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 05:10:03 +0000

That’s why I very rarely give up on a book, at some point I might get it! This one’s going on my list.

By: Belle

Belle — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 04:50:06 +0000

This one has been in my TBR for a few months now. I’ll definitely keep in mind that it took you a while to get into the book!

Comments on: Book Review: *The Elegance of the Hedgehog* by Muriel Barbery