Learning a language involves not only learning its grammar and vocabulary but also becoming familiar with its culture. Reading books in the target language is an excellent way to improve language skills while also getting a glimpse of the culture.
Here are 10 French books published in 2018 that will help you learn the language.
- “La Serpe” by Philippe Jaenada: Winner of the Prix Femina, this non-fiction book tells the story of Henri Girard, who was convicted of the murder of his wife in 1941. Philippe Jaenada takes a new look at the case and provides an alternative theory of what happened. This book is excellent for those who enjoy true crime stories and historical non-fiction.
- “L’Art de perdre” by Alice Zeniter: Winner of the Prix Goncourt des Lycéens, this novel follows the life of a woman named Naïma, whose grandfather was an Algerian Harki who fought for the French army during the Algerian War. The book explores the complexities of identity and the legacy of colonialism in France.
- “Les Loyautés” by Delphine de Vigan: This novel explores the themes of loyalty and betrayal. It tells the story of a school psychologist who discovers a secret about one of her students and struggles with how to handle the situation. The book is an excellent choice for those interested in exploring ethical dilemmas.
- “Un certain M. Piekielny” by François-Henri Désérable: This novel is inspired by a mention of a certain M. Piekielny in a conversation between the French writer Romain Gary and a friend. The book is a mix of fact and fiction and tells the story of François-Henri Désérable’s search for the elusive M. Piekielny.
- “Tiens ferme ta couronne” by Yannick Haenel: This novel tells the story of a writer who is asked to write the biography of a famous artist. The book explores themes of art, creativity, and identity.
- “Les Grands cerfs” by Claudie Hunzinger: This novel is set in the Vosges region of France and follows the story of a woman who moves to the countryside to escape city life. The book is an excellent choice for those interested in nature writing and exploring the relationship between humans and the environment.
- “L’Empereur à pied” by Charif Majdalani: This novel is set in 1799 and tells the story of Napoleon Bonaparte’s campaign in Egypt. The book is an excellent choice for those interested in historical fiction and the Napoleonic era.
- “Leurs enfants après eux” by Nicolas Mathieu: Winner of the Prix Goncourt, this novel is set in a small town in the 1990s and follows the lives of a group of teenagers. The book is an excellent choice for those interested in coming-of-age stories and exploring the complexities of adolescence.
- “Un soir à Paris” by Nicolas Barreau: This novel tells the story of Alain, a bookstore owner who falls in love with a mysterious woman named Mélanie. The book is an excellent choice for those interested in romantic fiction and the beauty of Paris.
- “La Vraie Vie” by Adeline Dieudonné: Winner of the Prix Renaudot des Lycéens, this novel tells the story of a young girl who grows up in a dysfunctional family. The book is an excellent choice for those interested in exploring themes of family dynamics and the impact of trauma.