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The Elegance of the Hedgehog (Paperback)
$11.36 - Save $1.26 (9%) - RRP $12.62 Free delivery worldwide (to United States and
all these other countries) Usually dispatched within 24 hours | |Short Description for The Elegance of the HedgehogRene is the concierge of a Parisian apartment building. She is passionate about culture and the arts. Several floors up, 12-year-old Paloma Josse is determined to avoid the pampered and vacuous future laid out for her. But unknown to them both, the sudden death of one of their privileged neighbours will dramatically alter their lives forever.
Full description- Publisher: Gallic Books
- Published: 21 February 2009
- Format: Paperback 320 pages
- See: Full bibliographic data
- Categories: Contemporary Fiction | Fiction In Translation
- ISBN 13: 9781906040185 ISBN 10: 1906040184
- Sales rank: 7
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Reviews for The Elegance of the Hedgehog
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Loved it!
I love this book. It does take a little effort to get used to the deept thoughts and concepts brought up, but well worth it. What a wonderful author! I look forward to reading her other novels. by Karyn Williams
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A lovely book!
It took a long time for me to get into the rhythm of this book but I'm glad I persevered. The story was like a lovely melody; quietly, gently leading the reader on towards the crushing conclusion. I was devastated and yet strangely soothed by the language in the final pages. Yes, a lovely book but not for everyone. by Fiona Smith
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The Elegance of the Hedgehog
What a beautiful metaphor (once revealed) in the title. Exquisitely crafted with such beautiful language. Unusual and interesting characters, and a slap-in-the-face ending. Though completely enjoyable and such a worthwhile read, I would have liked to see the three main characters' relationship evolve and deepen. I was inspired by the concierge's knowledge and sensitivity towards others; her insight and judgements was thought-provoking. Love the Japanese gentleman's awareness of and value of all human beings. And that young girl? What an awesome character who might, at first, come across as too sophisticated for her age.
Because the language is so rich, and in the beginning, seems quite verbose, it is a novel that I'd recommend to persevere as it's richness unfolds. This book goes into my "Favourites" list. by Beverley Colemanunder review -
Felt Ripped off
I was totally drawn into this book, loved the style and the theme, it was such a delightful French novel and covered great swathes of philosophy and social commentary.
However the ending was such a slap in the face that I felt it detracted from the novel, it was so out of left field. I cant say too much more because I dont want any spoilers, but the ending left me feeling ripped off and manipulated. Or I felt the author was on a time line and had to finish the book that weekend.
Many of my favourite books do not have neat happy endings so its not that that I have a problem with, its more the fact the ending was like a shock tactic in an otherwise gentle and well observed novel. by Paul McGeownunder review -
Best book
This book is entertaining, informative and truly delightful! A little different from the normal story and the ending was a surprise, I would highly recommend this book for anyone wishing to have an enjoyable, well written book to sit and read! by Hilary Bishop
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Book or Film?
I've read this book and loved it.
I've seen the film and loved it.
But I believe that the author dislikes the film intensely. I can't understand why - the film is as absorbing and subtle as the book.
Has anyone any idea why the author doesn't like the film? by lochaberunder review -
Not My Style
I personally did not like this book. I usually judge my books by the '30 page rule' but decided to keep going with this book. By 130 I found myself bored and not looking forward to reading it so gave up.
I am usually into fast paced romance, historical or thriller type books so perhaps it just wasn't my style.
The book was written beautifully, but I found myself often turning to the dictionary - perhaps as I am young, or maybe I just have a terrible vocabulary. by Jamie Funder review -
Brilliant!
I can honestly say that this book is one of the best I've ever read. It is incredibly human, deeply philosophical and highly intelligent. Barbery's use of language and evident joy in using it makes 'The Elegance of the Hedgehog' an absolute delight to read.
The author's deep appreciation for all the things that make us human is clearly conveyed and really makes you think. If you read one book this year, make it 'The Elegance of the Hedgehog'. by Jessicaunder review -
Top review
The book, the movie...
I read this book a while ago and I really loved it. It was the first time in a lot of time that I really cried reading a book... so I suppose as an audiobook it would be as awesome :) by Herminia Paez Prado
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Fantastic read
I LOVED this book. Great tempo, unassuming style, captured my attention fully. by Nicole McKenzie
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