A little life
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara is a deeply emotional, intense novel that follows four college friends — Jude, Willem, JB, and Malcolm — as they grow into adulthood in New York City. The heart of the book revolves around Jude, a brilliant but secretive man with a traumatic past that slowly unfolds over the course of the story.
What Makes It Great:
Emotional depth: It’s one of the most emotionally powerful novels of the 21st century — raw, brutal, and beautifully written.
Complex characters: The friendships and inner lives of the characters, especially Jude, are explored with painful honesty.
Literary ambition: It dares to go places most books won’t — dealing with trauma, suffering, love, and endurance without flinching.
Gorgeous prose: Yanagihara’s writing style is rich, immersive, and often poetic.
Is It Worth Reading Despite Its Size
Yes — if you’re ready for an emotionally demanding read. It’s over 700 pages and not an easy journey. It deals heavily with themes of abuse, trauma, and self-harm, so it’s not for everyone. But many readers find it unforgettable and life-changing.
If you’re looking for something that will make you feel deeply, challenge you, and linger in your mind long after the last page, it’s absolutely worth it.
La forza del cuore by Monica Guerritore
La forza del cuore is an intimate and powerful memoir in which actress Monica Guerritore reflects on the key moments of her life: love, loss, motherhood, illness, separation, and artistic transformation. She tells her story with the same intensity and sensitivity that she brings to the stage. This is not a tale of fame or spectacle, but a deeply human and honest search for meaning, beauty, and inner strength.
What makes the book truly special is Guerritore’s ability to turn personal experiences into universal themes. Her reflections are both relatable and inspiring — ideal for readers who appreciate life stories with depth and heart.
What Makes It Great:
Honest and vulnerable: Guerritore writes with humility and openness.
Universal themes: Love, aging, separation, healing — topics that speak to everyone.
Strong female voice: A powerful statement on self-determination and emotional freedom.
Literary and vivid style: Poetic, yet clear and accessible.
Behind-the-scenes insights: A fascinating glimpse into the Italian world of theatre and film.
Comforting and empowering: Shows how resilience can emerge from hardship.
Balanced tone: Emotionally rich, yet thoughtful and reflective.
Is It Worth Reading
Yes — especially for those who appreciate deeply felt personal stories that move you and make you think. This book is perfect for readers drawn to themes of personal growth, female strength, and the beauty of a life fully lived.
