The Story of a New Name

by Elena Ferrante
The Story of a New Name cover
Good Books rating 4.0
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Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99–£14.99
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  • ID: 10305
  • Added: 2026-01-24
  • Updated: 2026-01-28
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Goodreads · 2026-01-24
emotional 4.50

The novel broke the reviewer's heart so badly that they had to stop reading it for a few days to recover.

The reviewer was deeply moved by The Story of a New Name, describing it as a book that broke their heart so badly that they needed a few days to recover. They highlighted the book's emotional depth and its ability to evoke strong feelings. The reviewer appreciated the book's raw and honest portrayal of life's challenges and the complexities of relationships. They found the narrative to be powerful and unforgettable, leaving a lasting impact on them. The reviewer's sentiment underscores the book's ability to resonate deeply with readers.

Quick quotes

    This novel broke my heart.

    It broke my heart so badly that I had to stop reading it for a few days to recover.

    This is the second book of Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan Novels, and it is just as powerful as the first.

Mum of Three World · 2020-11-20
great 4.50

The book is atmospheric with complex and flawed characters, particularly Lila. It took the reviewer a while to get into but they loved it overall.

The reviewer found The Story of a New Name to be a deeply atmospheric book, rich with complex and flawed characters, especially Lila. The narrative's depth and the intricate portrayal of relationships drew them in, making it a compelling read. They appreciated the book's ability to explore the nuances of human nature and the challenges of growing up in a challenging environment. The reviewer loved the book, highlighting its emotional resonance and the way it stays with you long after finishing.

Quick quotes

    I loved The Story of a New Name.

    It is such an atmospheric book and the characters, particularly Lila, are so complex and flawed.

    It took me a while to get into it, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.

NPR · 2013-11-04
compelling 4.00

The novel offers a unique perspective on Italian classism and machismo through the lens of female friendship. It is a sweeping epic tale that feels like a modern classic.

The reviewer highlights the novel's unique perspective on Italian classism and machismo, as seen through the lens of female friendship. This angle adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling read. The book's sweeping epic tale and richly drawn characters give it the feel of a modern classic. The reviewer appreciates the nuanced portrayal of societal issues and the authentic depiction of the characters' struggles and triumphs.

Quick quotes

    Bound by the confines of gender and finances, two young women take divergent paths.

    It's a sweeping, epic tale with the feel of a modern classic.

    Superbly translated by Ann Goldstein, the book paints a rich and nuanced portrait.

Tony's Reading List · Tony · 2013-10-10
harrowing 3.00

The book is brutal and upsetting, particularly Lila's introduction to married life. It does not make for pleasant reading.

Tony found The Story of a New Name to be a harrowing read, particularly due to the brutal and upsetting portrayal of Lila's introduction to married life. The book's unflinching look at the harsh realities of life and relationships left a strong impression on them. They appreciated the book's raw honesty and the way it delves into the complexities of human relationships, but they also found it emotionally challenging. Tony's review highlights the book's ability to evoke strong emotions and its powerful narrative.

Quick quotes

    Lila is now one of these women, and her introduction to married life is brutal and upsetting.

    It does not make for pleasant reading.

    The new life is not what she expected, and the book does not shy away from showing the harsh realities.

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