Questions About The Elegance of the Hedgehog

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Answered Questions (11)

I found the writing to be very didactic and showing off a bit. The sentences do go on. I haven't read very much yet and will struggle on but it is not bedtime reading. Did you find the language too wordy ?

Dolly I agree it is wordy and more like a reading assignment in a Philosophy course at the beginning. But as soon as the Ozu character is introduced, you be…moreI agree it is wordy and more like a reading assignment in a Philosophy course at the beginning. But as soon as the Ozu character is introduced, you begin to love the three main characters. It's worth staying with it to the end. Listening to an audio version helps, while reading along in the book. Hearing the narrator's voice endears her to you. Stay with it. It's a beautiful book in many ways.(less)

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Is this appropriate for teenagers?

Garden Gal This is not a small, easy book. IT IS a book for teens and adults who do not mind thinking as they read.
It is difficult to read at a single sitting be…moreThis is not a small, easy book. IT IS a book for teens and adults who do not mind thinking as they read.
It is difficult to read at a single sitting because it will stimulate thought, and perhaps journaling.

I have read it only twice to date,and made discoveries on the second reading. Share it and talk about it with other readers.(less)

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I am working on this book (in french), as a far from fluent speaker. Any advice on reading books in a foreign language?

Elvira Ribacu Yes, start with another one. This one had too many unknown words even in my native language, I can't imagine how hard it would've been to read it in F…moreYes, start with another one. This one had too many unknown words even in my native language, I can't imagine how hard it would've been to read it in French.(less)

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I found the book to be a bit pompous and had a hard time getting into it. I won't finish it unless someone convinces me that it is worth the slogging?

Deborah I really connected with the two main characters. Both are people that go unnoticed by those around them. I loved the book. But it may not be everyone'…moreI really connected with the two main characters. Both are people that go unnoticed by those around them. I loved the book. But it may not be everyone's taste.(less)

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I thoroughly enjoyed the Elegance of the Hedgehog, it was captivating from beginning to end. I had not read any of Muriel Barbery until now. By reading the Elegance of the Hedgehog first, have I spoiled the full enjoyment of Gourmet Rhapsody?

Jean Fisher Thanks, Ellen - I think I will read Gourmet Rhapsody. I wonder if I can challenge myself to read in the original French - wonder if I'd get it.…moreThanks, Ellen - I think I will read Gourmet Rhapsody. I wonder if I can challenge myself to read in the original French - wonder if I'd get it.(less)

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