: A 54-year-old concierge who meticulously maintains a facade of being uncultivated and "grumpy" to fit social stereotypes. In reality, she is a self-taught polymath who devours the works of Kant, Tolstoy, and Japanese cinema.
Some reviewers find the concierge's rejection of her working-class roots in favor of "high culture" to be slightly classist or stereotypical. About the Story
L'eleganza del riccio (The Elegance of the Hedgehog) is a best-selling novel by French author , published in 2006.
4.5/5
"Le Leggenda del Riccio" by Muriel Barbery is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the inner lives of its characters, delving into themes of class, identity, and the transformative power of literature. The story revolves around Renée Michel, a wealthy Frenchwoman, and her building's concierge, Paloma, a young Japanese girl. On the surface, they seem worlds apart, but as the narrative unfolds, their inner lives reveal striking similarities.
L'eleganza del riccio is an absolute triumph of contemporary literature. It demands that we look past the social classes and physical appearances of the people around us to find the hidden art in everyday life. It is a moving, witty, and deeply emotional read that stays with you long after the final page. L'eleganza del riccio - Muriel Barbery - Libro - E/O - IBS