Learning French can be an enjoyable experience, especially when reading great literature. Reading in French is a great way to expand your vocabulary, improve your grammar, and gain a deeper understanding of the French culture.
Here are ten French books from 2019 to help you learn the language.
- “Les choses humaines” by Karine Tuil – This book is a thriller about a family embroiled in a scandal after their son is accused of rape. The book deals with themes of power, consent, and the responsibility of men in modern society.
- “Serotonin” by Michel Houellebecq – In this novel, the protagonist, a depressed agronomist, goes on a road trip through France and has several romantic encounters. The book is a satirical critique of contemporary French society.
- “Le Bal des folles” by Victoria Mas – This book is set in the Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris in the late 19th century and tells the story of women who are institutionalized and abused by the male staff. The book explores themes of gender, power, and mental illness.
- “Le Bal des ombres” by Hervé Le Corre – In this novel, the protagonist, a police detective, investigates a series of murders in Bordeaux. The book is a gripping thriller that explores themes of violence, corruption, and justice.
- “La part du fils” by Jean-Luc Coatalem – In this memoir, the author traces his family history and investigates his father’s involvement in the French Resistance during World War II. The book is a personal and emotional reflection on memory, family, and identity.
- “La guerre des pauvres” by Éric Vuillard – This book tells the story of the peasant uprising known as the German Peasants’ War, which took place in the early 16th century. The book explores themes of power, revolution, and social justice.
- “L’Énigme de la chambre 622” by Joël Dicker– This book is a mystery novel set in a luxurious Swiss hotel. When a murder takes place, the protagonist, a writer, sets out to solve the crime. The book is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- “Le consentement” by Vanessa Springora – In this memoir, the author reflects on her relationship with the French author Gabriel Matzneff, who she met when she was a teenager. The book deals with themes of abuse, power, and the responsibility of adults in relationships with minors.
- “La grâce” by Thibault de Montaigu – In this memoir, the author recounts his journey to Rome to seek a pardon for his ancestor, who was excommunicated by the Pope in the 18th century. The book is a meditation on family, faith, and the nature of forgiveness.
In conclusion, these ten French books from 2019 are excellent resources for anyone looking to improve their French language skills. They deal with a wide range of themes, from family and identity to power and justice. So, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, give these books a read and see how they can help you master the French language.