Three Captivating Québécois Novels Francophiles Will Love
While studying French at the University of Mary Washington, Maria and I were lucky enough to study under a professor who specializes in Québécois literature. As French majors, we recognize that in an academic setting, professors often focus on and emphasize the study of “classic” literature from mainland France. In this article, however, we will be giving you our personal recommendations of great books that we have read by Québécois authors.
Folle, Nelly Arcan
In first place is a novel by Nelly Arcan, a québécoise author known for her works on topics such as the image of women in society, sexuality, and suicide. Partially based on her life experiences, her works fit well into the realistic fiction genre. Folle is a novel written in letter-form to Nelly’s ex-boyfriend who works as a journalist. Through the retelling of events and bountiful self reflection, we discover Nelly’s inner thoughts, worries, and insecurities.
L’acquittement, Gaétan Soucy
Our second recommendation comes from Gaétan Soucy, a québécois author who writes mysterious novels. His novels are not mystery novels per se, but rather stories that cause the reader to constantly question what is real or true. In L’acquittement, Soucy plays with the concept of memory through the story of a young music teacher recently returned to his hometown. During his stay, he is determined to find and speak with Julie, a girl that he has apparently wronged, in order to receive forgiveness.
Le jour des corneilles, Jean-François Beauchemin
The next novel we recommend is by Jean-François Beauchemin, an award-winning québécois author who has written many works, including Le jour des corneilles. This book, through suspense, mystery, and fauna, tells the story of a young boy living deep in the woods estranged from society with his abusive father. When their isolated world collides with that of normal society, we are able to understand the plight of the father, the son, and another important family member.
Finally, we have to remind you of L’amant du lac by Virginia Pésémapéo Bordeleau, a book we have previously discussed here on the blog. Check out Maria’s article to learn more of this novel about love, feminine desire, Algonquin culture, and humankind in general.
We hope that you were able to find a new read from these book suggestions and that the world of francophone literature has been opened a little more for you! Which novel piques your interest? Let us know in a comment.
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