Middlesex tells the story of Cal, a hermaphrodite who was born in Detroit and raised by a single mother. As soon as he is able to understand what’s happening, Cal begins to question his gender identity and starts to grow into both halves of himself. This epic coming-of-age tale follows him from Michigan to New York City as he wrestles with his family’s past and his own uncertain future. Told in lyrical, propulsive prose, Middlesex is an exhilarating novel about family.
For who is this book for ?
Middlesex is a coming of age story for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit into the mold society expects them to. It’s about growing up and discovering your true identity, no matter how unconventional it may be. The novel offers a unique perspective on gender identity and sexuality, making it an important read for LGBTQ+ audiences.
Pros :
- Jeffrey Eugenides is a fantastic writer
- The novel follows Cal as he grows into both halves of himself, which is unique and interesting to read about
- It’s an epic coming-of-age tale that will keep you hooked until the very end
Cons :
- It is a dense read.
- The plot can be confusing at times.
- It’s not a light, easy read.
Learn more about the author
Jeffrey Eugenides was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1960 and attended Brown University. He is the author of three previous novels—The Virgin Suicides (1993), which has been translated into thirty languages; Jeffrey Eugenides’s latest novel is The Marriage Plot HarperCollins Publishers → Middlesex (2002), which was awarded the Pulitzer Prize, has been translated into twenty languages; and The Savage.
Reader Reviews
“Wonderful, lyrical writing and a fascinating story. I loved it!”
“Astonishing . . . Jeffrey Eugenides has written one of the great novels about identity in this century.”
“This expansive, immigrant family saga is Jeffrey Eugenides’ masterpiece. It’s also a coming-of-age story like no other, populated by characters who are themselves becoming their best selves.”
“Astonishing. . .”
