book review #9 Call me by your name

- Andre Aciman

Are you looking for a good book for the summer?

This book is a bittersweet story of a teenager named Elio who unexpectedly finds love one summer that changes his life 180 degrees. He meets Oliver who comes from the US as a guest to stay at Elio’s house on the Italian Riviera for research. Elio finds himself attracted to Oliver at an early stage but struggles to show his affection towards Oliver because he’s scared and unsure of what Oliver thinks of him. Throughout the elongated days of the summer heat by the poolside and extended conversations of the arts they strongly have in common, the two gradually find each other’s existence to be irreplaceable.

 When I first started reading this book I was captured by the poetic language Aciman uses which gradually lured me into his world and made me want to keep reading! It’s beautifully written and I loved how the development of the characters matches with the romantic tone of Aciman’s writing style. You can dive into Elio’s state of mind and the internal struggle he goes through as he tries to figure out all the intentions behind Oliver’s actions and words. It did hurt to see that while he wanted so much more he sometimes had to put a brake on his feelings because of social norms and logistical reasons..:/ Nevertheless, it perfectly captures the struggle of not knowing what the person you think so dearly of wants, and the frustration of not expressing your true desire from the fear of breaking something that you want to last forever. I also loved the bond between father and son when Elio’s father saw right through him and knew how invaluable his relationship with Oliver was :D

 This book is filled with wisdom that far exceeds what you’d expect in this number of pages and I think you’ll also agree once you read it:) A great choice to take with you to the beach or wherever you go out to this summer vacation!