One sentence summary:
A heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that delves into the inner lives of two unlikely friends living in a Parisian apartment building.
Book genre:
Fiction, Philosophy
Main topic of the book:
The book explores the themes of identity, social class, and the pursuit of happiness through the perspectives of two characters from very different backgrounds.
Key ideas:
- Society’s tendency to judge and overlook the true potential and worth of individuals based on external appearances and stereotypes.
- The search for meaning and purpose in life, and how it can be found in unexpected friendships and experiences.
- The importance of questioning societal norms and conventions and finding one’s own path towards self-fulfillment.
Main parts of the book and a short summary:
- The first part of the book is told through the journal entries of Renée Michel, the concierge of a luxurious Parisian apartment building. Renée is a middle-aged woman of humble origins who hides her intelligence and love for literature from her wealthy and snobbish employers.
- The second part introduces Paloma Josse, a highly intelligent and precocious 12-year-old girl living in the same apartment building. Paloma is disillusioned with the world and plans to end her life on her 13th birthday, but finds hope and friendship in Renée.
- In the third and final part, the two women’s relationship deepens as they both discover that they have been hiding their true selves from the world. Together, they challenge societal expectations and confront their fears, ultimately finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives.
Key takeaways:
- Appearances can be deceiving, and we should not judge others based on societal norms and expectations.
- Friendship and human connection can bring meaning and purpose to our lives.
- Challenging societal conventions and finding our own path is essential for personal growth and fulfillment.
Author’s background and qualifications:
Muriel Barbery is a French author who studied philosophy at the École Normale Supérieure in Paris. She has worked as a philosophy teacher and is known for her works infused with philosophical musings and insights.
Target audience:
The book is suitable for readers who enjoy literary fiction and philosophical themes. It may also appeal to those interested in French culture and society.
Publisher and first publication date:
The Elegance of the Hedgehog was published by Editions Gallimard in 2006 in France, and was later translated into English and published by Europa Editions in 2008.