The Elegance of the Hedgehog (Paperback)
$11.97 - Save $2.04 14% off - RRP $14.01 Free shipping worldwide (to United States and
all these other countries) Usually dispatched within 48 hours | |Short Description for The Elegance of the Hedgehog Rene 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: 01 May 2009
- Format: Paperback 320 pages
- See: Full bibliographic data
- Categories: Contemporary Fiction | Fiction In Translation
- ISBN 13: 9781906040185 ISBN 10: 1906040184
- Sales rank: 14
Other books
Reviews for The Elegance of the Hedgehog
one of my top ten books
I LOVED this amazing beautifully written book. I loved the language and I loved the main character. I have read it twice. I don't read many books twice. I didn't want this book to end. Pam by pam
Not worth buying
The language is very complicated, you need a dictionary to hand! by linda mcsweeney
under reviewBeautifully written
This is a really refreshing well written and original story - I bought this book and also Water for Elephants based on good reader reviews on Book Depository and I was not disappointed with either.
Great characterisations, the observations made in the story were very true. The book was so good - I wanted the story to continue for longer. by Dee Jonesunder reviewLike poetry...
This book is really stunning, the prose translates flawlessly and effortlessly from French and at times even sounds like poetry. Within the grander systems of the French bourgeoisie, the unhappy 'fate' of the concierge and the private disconcertment of Paloma, there are moments of hilarity and poignancy. This book is to be read both for its language but also its story, one which encompasses several characters all equally intriguing. by Nechama
under reviewLoved 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
under reviewA 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
under reviewThe 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 reviewFelt 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 reviewBest 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
under reviewBook 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

share
tweet