Cover of My Brilliant Friend. Photo cred: Ted Gioia
Sophie Parker
On October 19, 2011, the literary fiction novel My Brilliant Friend was published, taking Europeans and Americans by storm. The first edition of the four-part series, known as the “Neapolitan Novels,” was initially published in Italian, and then translated by Ann Goldstein into English in 2012. Written by Elena Ferrante, My Brilliant Friend was nominated as “The New York Times Best Book of the Twenty-First Century”.
Set in post-war Naples, Italy, this story follows the young Elena and Lila as they navigate life together in their impoverished neighborhood. In the early years, a competitive and complex friendship forms between the two girls, as together, they try to exceed the expectations of their violent town. With limited opportunities for women, both girls feel constrained by their parents, teachers, and even each other. While Elena and Lila begin to compete and motivate each other in school, a relationship built off of jealousy and resentment forms. The charming and diligent Elena finds herself constantly trying to keep up with a reckless and rebellious Lila, leading to a lifelong friendship, full of rivalry and passion.
With obvious rave reviews, the book is rated four out of five stars on Goodreads. Ferrante excels in multiple story-writing techniques, creating unique atmospheres throughout the book. The first chapter opens with Elena and Lila climbing a staircase towards the feared Don Achille’s apartment, while also weaving in other events of their childhood as they get closer to the door, starting the book off with a mood of anxious anticipation. Ferrante uses indirect characterization to subtly explain character dynamics and personality, creating a thought-provoking plot. For example, when Elena follows Lila up the staircase it foreshadows Elena’s willingness to blindly follow Lila, no matter the consequence.
Even from the beginning, the story held potential, grabbing the reader's attention with a short prologue set in the future where Lila’s son, Rino, calls Elena informing her that his mother has gone missing again. Wanting to figure out how this could have happened, readers are compelled to continue reading and are immediately hooked after the first few pages with the ingenious writing style that Ferrante uses.
The setting, plot, and characters were flawlessly executed throughout the story. Ferrante brilliantly curated a book nothing short of a masterpiece, worthy of the praise it has received. As readers, we truly see and understand the two girls' struggles as Ferrante brings them to life through her book.
If you are seeking an unforgettable reading experience that encompasses topics such as fate, family, and friendship, the fact is, My Brilliant Friend is exactly what you are looking for. Complete with emotion-evoking scenes and exceptional writing, this novel will not fail to exceed expectations. Making for a worthwhile read and deserving of the title “The New York Times Best Book of the Twenty-First Century”.
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