The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery

Muriel Barbery’s The Elegance of the Hedgehog eloquently presents two Parisian heroines who would escape the miseries of this world, but finally, and together, reverse their respective retreats and face all that is, with an assist from a Japanese gentleman. They find strength in simple moments of beauty, but what is most beautiful is how strong they become in their connection to one another. Barbery’s two heroines, Madame Michel and Paloma, each penetrate the farcical aspects of modern life, which leaves them each thirsting only for escape. But their friendships, first with newcomer Mr. Ozu, and then with one another, demonstrate that while it is next to impossible to save one’s self, it is truly liberating to save one another. And this is reason enough not only to go on living, but to celebrate life.