New French Book Recommendations To Consider

Looking for a new Francophone read and you don't know where to start? Here are some recommendations for new books from Francophone writers:

1. "Petit pays" (Small Country) by Gaël Faye: This novel tells the story of a young boy named Gabriel, growing up in Burundi during the civil war. It explores themes of loss, identity, and the impact of war on a child's life.
   
2. "Chanson douce" (Lullaby) by Leïla Slimani: Winner of the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 2016, this psychological thriller explores the complex relationship between a nanny and the family she works for. It delves into themes of class, motherhood, and societal pressures.
   
3. "Boussole" (Compass) by Mathias Énard: This novel follows the journey of a musicologist named Franz Ritter as he reminisces about his travels and encounters with various cultures in the Middle East. It's a rich and introspective exploration of history, art, and the clash of civilizations.
   
4. "L'art de perdre" (The Art of Losing) by Alice Zeniter: This multi-generational saga traces the history of a French-Algerian family, exploring themes of identity, exile, and the complexities of post-colonial relationships.
   
5. "Vernon Subutex" by Virginie Despentes: This trilogy (composed of "Vernon Subutex 1," "Vernon Subutex 2," and "Vernon Subutex 3") follows the life of the eponymous protagonist, a former record store owner, as he navigates a changing Parisian landscape. It's a sharp and satirical exploration of contemporary society.
   
6. "Djaïli Amadou Amal" by Les impatientes: This novel by Djaïli Amadou Amal, winner of the Prix Goncourt des Lycéens in 2020, sheds light on the experiences of three African women in a patriarchal society. It addresses themes of forced marriage, gender inequality, and women's resilience.
   
7. "Tous les hommes n'habitent pas le monde de la même façon" (Not All Men Live in the Same World) by Jean-Paul Dubois: This thought-provoking novel tells the story of Paul Hansen, a Frenchman who reflects on his life while serving a prison sentence in Canada. It explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.
   

These are just a few suggestions to get you started. Francophone literature offers a rich and diverse array of voices and genres, so I hope you find something that captures your interest! And feel free to explore our library for other good reads!