A review by clmckinney
The Story of a New Name by Elena Ferrante

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This is the second story in the Neapolitan quartet. We follow Lenu and Lila from teens into early adulthood. This book is about so many things. We see the world of Naples in the 60s at a time of change in the world. As well, these girls lives dramatically change. This book is the beginning of friendship being tested. There is also the underlining theme of women's rights and their corresponding choices. I liked this more than the first novel. It had more twists and turns. I will start the next novel soon. What I am also fascinated with is Elena Ferrante. As the main character is called Elena too. Ferrante seems a myth especially with all the rumours swirling about who she/he could be. The writing is similar to Starnone, or maybe it is his translator wife or the two of them together. Regardless, the mystery of the author adds to the whole experience of reading the books. I give this one a 4.5/5.