The Neapolitan Novels Boxed Set Kindle Edition

I found Elena Ferrante by accident, a name mentioned in passing in an article chanced upon in an otherwise empty minute. In some sense, isn't this how we always meet the people who will matter, by some whim of circumstance? Ferrante writes women as they are. The complexities, confusions, passions, losses - Ferrante distills this into female characters in whom you see pieces of every girl, maiden, woman, or crone you will ever know. I gifted this to my sister for her most recent birthday, and it's not often I gift books -- doing so reveals too much of who you are at the time you pass the book into the hands of another. There is nothing left secret after reading The Neapolitan Series.

I powered through all four books even though there were many disturbing images and developments. Growing up in 1950's Naples was complete foreign territory to me and terrifying in many ways as I had been raised in a more or less safe loving environment in Ohio where education was guaranteed and highly valued. I took away a number of valuable insights on relationships, raising children and personal development which I hope I don't forget. Much of what happens through out the story is harsh and hard to accept which leads me to believe that this is not for everyone. The beauty of the writing and the fascination with Lila and Lenu did keep me glued until the end of the saga and I am sorry to have to move on other writing. I hope I've learned something about improving my own writing. I send heartfelt thanks to the author for this amazing work.

Its follows the story of two girls, who are best friends, in the eyes of the world, but mostly rivals in reality. Their actions are dictated by a certain sense of one-upmanship towards each other. One of them is effortlessly brilliant, but devious. All this in the backdrop of Naples. The novel spans decades and follows the girls, right upto their old age. Their relationships, careers, children and all the ups and downs faced by them in their lives are covered. A lot is spoken about the political and social climate of Italy in those times.Its a fantastic read, albeit long (all 4 novels). I felt very involved/engaged in the story, such was the power of the narrative.

I recently read What Happened by Hillary Clinton. Throughout the book she mentions books she read. This quartet is one she read following her election, and it appealed to me. I read all four books. They totally held my attention from beginning to end. They tell the story of two Italian female friends from childhood through old age. They're well written, and the characters are realistically developed.

Elena Ferrante's words are magic. I read all four books in one week, because (obviously) I couldn't put them down. I had to know what happened to both heroines, their families, their neighborhood, friends, various locations in Italy, etc. The translational the books from Italian to English isn't always smooth. There are cultural and expression differences that just don't have a mirrored counterpart in English, but meaning is understood. I found the parts where the translation was not a perfect match to be some of the most interesting reads, because it gave you a truer presentation of what a native speaker would say and how they might express themselves. While on this train of thought, I was struck by the domestic violence and wondered whether this was a product of the time period in which the stories took place, whether it was common in poorer Italian locations (the author didn't show this type of spousal or girlfriend abuse amongst the wealthier characters)or whether it was simply fictionalized. It was interesting. Anyway - I could not recommend this series of books higher!!!

I am born in Italy and I have visited many parts of Italy includingNaples not long ago. I am from a modest family and I am the first to get college degrees, so to me it was mesmerizing to place myself in Elena's and see what the different upbringing did for the two girls and the future for both. Fascinating and good writing. Gina

I love the story, the writing, the sociology in the book. Really describes life during the 50's, 60's, 70's, and 80's. Even though it takes place in Italy, mostly in Naples, the author's experiences mirrored mine so muchWomen's issues, struggle to survive, all different social classes of people. Truly an amazing body of work

These are not fairytales, but a genuine, quality reflection of the nitty-gritty, survival-of-the-fittest life facing Neopolitans in the years following WWII. I think Ferrante’s description of a friendship rife with the jealousies and corroding self-esteem issues that are completely understandable considering the family dynamics of that time & place is absolutely masterful. She so clearly grasps how the sociological and intimate family dynamics of that time could negatively influence emotional development, that there were periods where I strongly felt segments of her stories might be autobiographical.I can totally understand why anyone who is unfamiliar with the Italian national character or with the dark personal & regional struggles associated with post-WWII Italy might find Ferrante’s characters and stories out of the realm of possibility, and totally unlikeable; but her capturing of the human ethology of that era is realistic and gripping ... though not for the faint-hearted! I found her characters and stories fascinating. I’m looking forward to reading more of her works.

I bought this set of four books at the beginning of lockdown as it had been a long time since I had found an author or series of books to keep me engaged and entertained and this series came highly recommended. It was probably the best decision I have ever made. The books are enthralling and compelling, with wonderfully believable characters and portrayal of a working class community in late 20th century Naples. The story lines are honest and authentic and keep you going back to follow the lives of these extraordinary yet ordinary people. I felt a bit bereft when I finished the fourth book and will check out other novels by the author.

Haunting, mesmerising, engrossing and thoroughly enjoyable to read. Is it fiction? A roman-à-clef? It's impossible to know and equally impossible to put down. I read all four books in three weeks and now I am bereft, still wanting more. It is likely many female readers will see themselves in both of the main protagonists. The Naples of mid-20th century will be unknown to most, but so thoroughly drawn one feels they are living it in these pages.

Every sentence is a delight in constructing an overarching masterpiece that resonates and illuminates with experiences across the spanse of life.

Fantastic. Amazing storytelling. Keeps you breathless.

Fantastic stories. Very well written. Found that the first book jumps around a lot but 2-4 much easier. Well worth persevering.Cant wait to start them all over again!