Middlesex

by Jeffrey Eugenides
Middlesex cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 711
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • Publisher: CUP Archive
  • Published: 2004-01-01
  • Formats: 65
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99–£10.99
Bookshop
Format • £10.44

Middlesex is a groundbreaking novel that delves into the complexities of identity and self-discovery. The story follows Calliope Stephanides, who grows up in a Greek-American family in Detroit, only to discover that she is intersex due to a rare genetic mutation. The narrative spans three generations, offering a rich tapestry of family history and cultural heritage. /n/n The novel is not just a coming-of-age story but also an exploration of the fluidity of gender and the societal expectations that shape our identities. With its blend of historical events and personal drama, Middlesex is a powerful and thought-provoking read.

Reviews
Fathom Mag · 2016-11-07
compelling 4.50

They considered it one of the deepest and most compelling novels they've ever read, praising Eugenides' mastery of storytelling.

The reviewer described Middlesex as one of the deepest and most compelling novels they have ever encountered. They praised Jeffrey Eugenides' mastery of storytelling, noting the novel's ability to delve deeply into complex themes and emotions. The reviewer was particularly impressed by the book's structure and the way it seamlessly blended historical and emotional elements. They found the narrative to be both thought-provoking and deeply moving, making it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    It is one of the deepest and most compelling novels I've ever laid my hands on.

    Middlesex proves that Jeffrey Eugenides is an absolute master.

    The breathtaking story of Calliope Stephanides and her truly unique family secret.

My Good Bookshelf · 2013-12-03
engaging 3.50

They found the story engaging and held their attention, though they felt some parts were not as strong. The narrative's unique structure and themes were particularly appreciated.

The reviewer truly enjoyed Middlesex for the most part, finding it engaging and attention-grabbing. They appreciated the novel's unique structure and the way it tackled complex themes. However, they noted that some parts of the story felt weaker, which slightly dampened their overall experience. The reviewer acknowledged the book's strengths in blending historical and emotional elements, making it a compelling read despite its flaws.

Quick quotes

    I truly enjoyed Middlesex for the most part.

    It was engaging and certainly held my attention.

    Yet I felt some parts were not as strong.

The Guardian · 2011-11-11
ambitious 4.00

They admired the novel's ambitious structure and the way it defies conventional narrative conventions. The first-person perspective was noted as particularly innovative.

The reviewer highlighted Middlesex's ambitious structure and its deliberate violation of conventional narrative fiction. They praised the first-person narrator, Cal, for providing a unique and innovative perspective. The reviewer appreciated the novel's complexity and the way it intertwined historical and emotional elements, making it a standout piece of literature. They found the book to be a bold and intriguing exploration of identity and heritage.

Quick quotes

    In Middlesex, Jeffrey Eugenides deliberately violates one of the basic conventions of narrative fiction.

    His first-person narrator, Cal, is an extraordinary creation.

    It is a bold and intricate exploration of identity and heritage.

Appears in Lists