The Story of the Lost Child is the fourth and final installment in the highly acclaimed Neapolitan Novels series written by Italian author Elena Ferrante. The series follows the lifelong friendship between two women, Elena Greco (the narrator) and Raffaella “Lila” Cerullo, against the backdrop of post-war Naples.

In this concluding novel, the story picks up where the previous book left off. Elena, now a successful writer in her 60s, receives a phone call from Lila’s son, who informs her that Lila has disappeared without a trace. Concerned for her friend’s safety, Elena embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind Lila’s disappearance.

As Elena delves deeper into Lila’s life, she uncovers a complex web of secrets, betrayals, and unfulfilled desires. The narrative explores themes of motherhood, identity, power dynamics, and the impact of societal expectations on women’s lives. Through Elena’s perspective, readers are taken on a reflective journey that spans over six decades, examining the complexities of friendship and the lasting effects it can have on one’s life.

Throughout the novel, Ferrante masterfully weaves together various storylines and characters from the previous books in the series. The lives of Elena and Lila intersect with those of their families, friends, and acquaintances, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. The author skillfully captures the nuances of human relationships and portrays the struggles faced by women in a patriarchal society.

As Elena continues her search for Lila, she confronts her own insecurities and confronts her own past choices. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth as Elena grapples with her own identity and purpose in life. The story also delves into political and social issues prevalent in Italy during different time periods.

The Story of the Lost Child is a poignant and thought-provoking conclusion to the Neapolitan Novels series. It offers a profound exploration of friendship, love, and the complexities of human nature. Elena Ferrante’s writing style is characterized by its rawness and emotional depth, drawing readers into the lives of her characters and immersing them in the richly detailed world of post-war Naples.

• The Story of the Lost Child

• The Neapolitan Novels, Book 4
• By: Elena Ferrante
• Narrated by: Hillary Huber

The Story of the Lost Child concludes the legendary tale of two women—the brilliant, nerdy Elena and fiery, irrepressible Lila—who first meet amid the turmoil of postwar Italy.

In this book, life’s great discoveries were made; its ambiguity and loss has suffered. Through it all, Elena and Lila’s friendship remains the center of attraction in their lives. Both women once fought to escape the neighborhood where they grew up. Elena got married, moved to Florence, got married, and published several well-received books. But now, she has returned to Naples to be with the man she has always loved.

On the other hand, Lila never succeeded in freeing herself from Napoli. She became a successful businessman, but her success drew her closer to the nepotism, chauvinism, and criminal violence that had infected her neighborhood. Somehow, though, her proximity to a world she’s always rejected only relieves that world’s unacknowledged leadership.

This wonderful series about the friendship of two women is not to be missed. Yes, it’s long but well worth your time. I believe most women can identify with the friendship of these two women, sometimes really not so friendly. …can you contact? I am so glad I heard this fascinating story.

Overall, I like the story, sometimes I get annoyed with Elena, then I remember that sometimes I can get annoyed with myself too.. This is my favorite book, a good ending for whole story.

These books are loaded. Long, emotional, and beautifully written. This turning point really surprised me. I’m sad it’s over, though – this series is a warm blanket and a consolation during quarantine. I’ll hear back in a few years and maybe be reminded of where I’ve been (home) and what I’m doing (continuous cooking). Picking up your headphones to listen to this song on a daily basis is a welcome after this strange season. I love these books! The pace is slow but so are my days now, so it should be fine. This narrator is in my all-time top 5, so comforting. I wonder if I would ever be able to separate her from Elena Greco if I heard anything else she’s ever read.

The four Neapolitan novels of which the Lost Child is the last are absolutely fantastic books. They are extremely well written and in the case well narrated. I love the story and enjoy the thought-provoking insights. I wholeheartedly recommend these books.

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