Balzac is an extremely clever writer with a very acute understanding of human nature and a genius for swiftly drawing characters that are fully realised and complex. I don't think he is a heavy or a difficult read, he's precise and he doesn't preach. Description of places and people is concise but richly evocative, at the same time the story shoots along dynamically, you want to know what will happen in the end. An extremely rewarding read and a near perfect example of the art of the novel.


Pere Goriot, a pleasant surprise   December 9, 1999
 6 out of 10 found this review helpful

I have just read this book for a class and it was an interesting story of Eugene and his conflict with himself and society. I was surprised at how palatable it was considering it is a period novel. The themes are universal and the book leaves you questioning the world around you. I strongly recommend that people read this book and to not be intimidated by it.


Read it in French if you can, but make sure you read it   May 13, 1999
 5 out of 7 found this review helpful

A fantastic exposition of the Human character this is a 'must read' for anyone with a love of 19th century literature.

Very long and detailed descriptions of character and setting make it a typical period piece. in fact much of the descriptive is lost in its translation from French, but that is no reason not to enjoy the book.

The story revolves around 'Eugene' a student and his involvement with two worlds, the world of his rather shabby boarding house and the world of Paris Society in the early nineteenth century.

Balzac explores how these worlds are fatally intermingled, but yet disparate, in the fortunes of Eugene.

Unlike the modern suspense writers one is never quite sure what will happen at the end, the mastery of plot is superb and the end is both tragic and fulfilling.

Read it in French if you can, but make sure you read it