Middlesex: Library Edition
- First published 1991
- English
- Classic
Spanning three generations of a Greek-American family, this epic novel begins with a guilty secret in a small village in Asia Minor and travels across time to Prohibition-era Detroit and the race riots of 1967. The story is narrated by Cal Stephanides, who is born Calliope, a girl, but who must uncover his family's astonishing genetic history to understand why he is not like the others. The journey traces the effects of a mutated gene as it passes through the family, culminating in a profound personal transformation that challenges conventional notions of identity.
Middlesex is a richly detailed account of the immigrant experience, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the intricate ways in which family history shapes personal destiny. It is a story about the forces of nature and nurture, the secrets that bind families together and tear them apart, and the universal search for one's true self. This inventive and compassionate novel explores what it means to be human and offers a sweeping narrative of history, genetics, and the complexities of finding your place in the world.
Middlesex is a richly detailed account of the immigrant experience, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the intricate ways in which family history shapes personal destiny. It is a story about the forces of nature and nurture, the secrets that bind families together and tear them apart, and the universal search for one's true self. This inventive and compassionate novel explores what it means to be human and offers a sweeping narrative of history, genetics, and the complexities of finding your place in the world.
What readers say
4.04
674K ratings across the web 7 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it
Reviews for the book generally laud its ambitious scope, rich character development, and unique narrative voice. Many readers praise it as an epic, multi-generational saga, tracing a Greek-American family's journey from Smyrna to Detroit across nearly a century of significant historical events, including Prohibition, World War II, and the social upheavals of the 1960s and 70s. The author's meticulous research and seamless integration of historical detail are frequently highlighted, creating a vivid backdrop for the family drama. The protagonist's engaging, witty, and often lyrical narration is consistently commended for making an unusual premise deeply human and relatable, exploring universal themes of identity, transition, and the human condition with sensitivity and insight. Overall, many reviewers consider it a beautifully written, impactful, and memorable work of literature.
However, the book is not without its criticisms. A common point of contention is its considerable length, with some readers finding the pacing slow and feeling that the central character's personal journey takes too long to emerge within the expansive family history. Critics sometimes describe the plot as overly ambitious or "busy," with numerous sub-plots and minor characters that some felt were underdeveloped or detracted from the core narrative. Concerns were also raised about the consistency of the protagonist's voice or depth in certain sections, and some stylistic choices were occasionally deemed jarring or verbose. A few reviewers also felt that the book's exploration of its central themes, while sensitive, could at times reinforce stereotypes or leave crucial character motivations unexplained.
Despite these mixed opinions, the consensus points to a book of significant ambition and intricate storytelling. It is highly recommended for readers who appreciate sweeping family sagas set against rich historical backdrops, and those interested in complex explorations of identity and transformation. The book particularly appeals to open-minded individuals willing to engage with challenging themes and immerse themselves in a lengthy, detailed narrative delivered through a distinctive and often omniscient voice. Ultimately, it is a compelling work for those who value extensive research and literature that prompts reflection on societal norms and personal journeys.
However, the book is not without its criticisms. A common point of contention is its considerable length, with some readers finding the pacing slow and feeling that the central character's personal journey takes too long to emerge within the expansive family history. Critics sometimes describe the plot as overly ambitious or "busy," with numerous sub-plots and minor characters that some felt were underdeveloped or detracted from the core narrative. Concerns were also raised about the consistency of the protagonist's voice or depth in certain sections, and some stylistic choices were occasionally deemed jarring or verbose. A few reviewers also felt that the book's exploration of its central themes, while sensitive, could at times reinforce stereotypes or leave crucial character motivations unexplained.
Despite these mixed opinions, the consensus points to a book of significant ambition and intricate storytelling. It is highly recommended for readers who appreciate sweeping family sagas set against rich historical backdrops, and those interested in complex explorations of identity and transformation. The book particularly appeals to open-minded individuals willing to engage with challenging themes and immerse themselves in a lengthy, detailed narrative delivered through a distinctive and often omniscient voice. Ultimately, it is a compelling work for those who value extensive research and literature that prompts reflection on societal norms and personal journeys.
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Details & editions
- This edition
- Macmillan Audio, 2012
- ISBN
- 9781427227690
- Language
- English
Original edition 中性 Originally published in 1991 · Chinese · Shanghai Translation Publishing House
