A review by nookandcrannyseattle
The Idiot by Elif Batuman

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I don't always love bildungsromans, but I sure loved this one! It was smart and sympathetic and relatable. Selin is the kind of idiot every intelligent child is at 18 years old. I'm nervous to read the second book, but feeling fairly confident in Elif Batuman's excellent writing. And speaking of, I don't think I would want to listen to her read anything else, but her narration of this character, specifically, was spot on!