The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

“The Elegance of the Hedgehog” is a novel by French author Muriel Barbery, first published in 2006. The story is set in an upscale apartment building in Paris and is told from the perspectives of two main characters: Renée Michel, a middle-aged concierge who hides her intelligence and cultural interests from the residents of the building, and Paloma Josse, a twelve-year-old girl who is planning to commit suicide on her thirteenth birthday due to her disillusionment with the world.

The novel explores themes of social class, philosophy, art, and the human condition through the perspectives of these two very different characters. Renée and Paloma develop an unlikely friendship as they both struggle with their place in the world and their feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Barbery’s writing is elegant and philosophical, with a focus on the inner lives of her characters. The novel is notable for its intricate exploration of the lives of people who are often overlooked or marginalized by society, as well as its examination of the ways in which art and culture can bring meaning and beauty to life.

Overall, “The Elegance of the Hedgehog” is a thought-provoking and deeply moving novel that explores complex themes with grace and intelligence. The book has been widely praised for its beautiful writing and its insightful portrayal of the human experience.