The Years

by Annie Ernaux; translated by Alison L. Strayer
The Years cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 726
  • Added: 2025-09-19
  • Updated: 2025-10-03
  • ISBN: 9781804270523
  • Published: 2022-10-01
  • Formats: 22
  • Reviews: 4
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Format • £10.44–£13.29

The Years is a unique and innovative novel that captures the essence of a century through the lives of a single family. The narrative unfolds in a series of vignettes, each offering a glimpse into different moments in time, revealing how the past shapes the present and the future. Virginia Woolf's masterful prose and keen observations make this a profound exploration of memory, history, and the human condition. /n/n The book is not just a story but a meditation on the nature of time itself. It challenges traditional narrative structures and invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the collective experiences that define a generation. Woolf's use of language and her ability to evoke emotion through seemingly simple moments make this a timeless piece of literature.

Reviews
Claire McAlpine's Blog · Claire McAlpine · 2024-07-24
innovative 4.00

The book is celebrated for its unique compilation of memory and experiences, offering a fresh perspective on non-fiction.

Claire McAlpine describes 'The Years' as a non-fiction work that stands out for its innovative approach to memoir and autobiography. She appreciates how Ernaux weaves together personal memories, cultural references, and historical events to create a rich tapestry of life in France from 1941 to 2006. McAlpine finds the book to be a compelling read, highlighting its ability to capture the essence of a generation through a blend of personal and collective experiences.

Quick quotes

    It is a unique compilation of memory, experiences, and historical events.

    A fresh perspective on non-fiction that stands out for its innovative approach.

    A rich tapestry of life in France from 1941 to 2006.

The Mistress of Books · 2021-02-05
Valuable 3.50

The English version is praised for being accessible and easier to read, making it a valuable experience despite some challenging passages. The book is seen as a unique compilation of memory and experiences.

The reviewer finds the English translation of the book to be a refreshing and accessible read, which is a relief for a work-exhausted brain. They appreciate the unique way the book compiles memories, experiences, and cultural references, making it a standout piece of non-fiction. The reviewer acknowledges certain challenging passages but overall finds the book to be a valuable and engaging read.

Quick quotes

    The English version was a lot easier on my work-exhausted brain.

    It is a unique compilation of memory, experiences, and cultural references.

    There were certain passages that were challenging but ultimately rewarding.

Tiny Camels · 2018-06-27
stunning 4.75

The book is lauded as a stunning piece of work that masterfully captures life in France post-World War II with minimal personal detail.

The reviewer praises 'The Years' as a stunning memoir that effectively portrays life in France since the Second World War. They note the book's unique approach of almost entirely omitting personal details, which allows for a broader, more universal narrative. The reviewer finds the book to be a remarkable achievement in literature, offering a deep and insightful look into the collective experiences of a generation. The translation is also commended for its ability to capture the subtleties of Ernaux's writing.

Quick quotes

    It is a stunning piece of work, a memoir of life in France since the second world war drained almost entirely of the personal.

    A remarkable achievement in literature.

    The translation captures the subtleties of Ernaux's writing.

The Guardian · 2018-06-22
masterful 4.50

The book is praised as a masterpiece that skillfully blends personal and public life, offering a unique narrative experience.

The reviewer highlights 'The Years' as a groundbreaking work that seamlessly merges personal memories with broader historical and cultural events. They appreciate the innovative structure and the way Ernaux captures the essence of time and change. The book is described as a profound reflection on life, making it a standout piece in contemporary literature. The reviewer finds the translation to be equally compelling, maintaining the nuances of Ernaux's original prose.

Quick quotes

    A 'slippery narrative' that blends personal and public life by one of France's most lauded writers.

    A masterpiece that offers a unique narrative experience.

    The English translation captures all the shadings of Ernaux's prose.

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