September 2010 - Book 25

The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

Renee  Michel is a concierge in a building housing some of the most expensive apartments in Paris. On the surface she is a typical ignorant concierge. Deep inside, she is an intellectual of note. Elsewhere in the building Paloma Josse, all of 12 years old, sees no future in her predetermined life. When the owner of one of the apartments dies, and the flat is sold to the charming Kakuro Ozu, both their lives take a turn in another direction.

Filled with wonderful characters each and every part of the book joins to tell the most unique and beautiful story in the most sublime way. I have to mention that the translation from the original French is also perfect. I oftenn find that books translated from another language is not as enjoyable to read as an originally English book as often the English feels forced and rigid. This translation flows and I never had the feeling that English was not the language that the book was originally written in.

Sublime, quiet and absolutely beautiful, this touching read is my favorite this year and may well earn a place in my top 30 or so books.


Cat's opinion: a perfect 10/10

August 2009 - Book no 25

"The Atonement Child" by Francine Rivers.

I love Francine Rivers' books that has a historical undertone like the "Voice in the wind" series. But the two books that I have read that takes place in the here and now both disappointed me. This book is an exception. I cried, I read without stopping and I found it hard to fall asleep, events just milling in my head.

I immediately liked Dynah - a honest and loving young woman. The tragedy of what happens to this woman is one thing to digest, the failing of her so called "loved ones" is something else. Her mother I can understand, the rest, just shows too much on stereotypical characters. I found Ethan such a stereotype, that I could forecast just from the back cover what his reactions were going to be. Also the Dean's reaction was no surprise. These two characters are weak. Some other characters are well developed and make the reading worth it. I especially enjoyed Grandma Evie and Cynthia Wyatt - two side characters that add a lot of dimension to the story and the message.

I found the end of the book and the resolution a bit shallow and the question of Grandam Evie remains unsolved, but in conclusion, although I have quite a bit of critic about it, a really good read. I will never be sorry that I read this book and it supports my pro-life support. Keep the tissues ready. Enjoy!
A good 8/10