The Danish Girl
Author: David Ebershoff
Book: 1/1
Summary: The Danish Girl is loosely based on the true story of the married couple Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener. The beginning of the novel takes place in Copenhagen, Denmark, in the year 1925; Ebershoff introduces the couple Einar and Greta Wegener, who work as artists. As the novel progresses, Einar comes to the realization of who he desires to be: Lili Elbe. Lili’s transition and journey of self acceptance forces Greta to ask herself: what do you do when the person you love starts to change?
Review: This novel is a story of acceptance, patience, and love. Though Lili’s transition brings many changes to their marriage, they both learn to love one another no matter the struggle, as well as support one another on their journey to find happiness. This journey exemplifies that one is capable of finding their own happiness despite the challenges that may arise. While reading the novel, I found that some parts required patience to get through, but the story immediately pulled me in and captured my interest at the start.
Additional note: Ebershoff changes Gerda’s real name to Greta, since not every detail entirely matches the true story by which it was inspired. Lili Elbe’s name was not changed.
Keep reading🏙
