The Story of a New Name - Elena Ferrante

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⭐ 8.0/10

(Originally written by Tim)

I really enjoyed this followup to My Brilliant Friend, following a couple years in the "Youth" of the 2 girls. I found this one a bit harder to read, since as they get older they are exposed to more suffering. They both have dreams of leaving the rough neighbourhood they grew up in, but continual backsliding makes it a bit frustrating, and it feels like they can't make progress.

I found this one just as relatable as the first was, again in ways I would not have anticipated. As the narrator describes her time in high school and university she constantly struggles with imposter's syndrome, something I deal with. While I can't relate to the financial and relational struggles, she is a protagonist I can't help but empathize with, and rooting for her is what keeps me flying through these book.

I don't know much about the art of writing, but I find the way these books are written to be quite beautiful. I am pretty sure it is semi-biographical, and the descriptions of all the settings is so vivid it feels lived-in. While I think she gets a bit flowery when attempting to express the emotions of an 18 year old, it kind of fits for the thoughts of the character we are seeing the world through.

As I said in my last review, I got these books for Jess on the recommendation of a co-worker, but I have really loved the first two and look forward to the second half of the series. Now I just need Jess to read them so I can talk with her about them...

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