5 New French Books to Read in 2025
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Loading... - Marc Blaise
- 07 Mar 2025
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French literature, with its rich history and contemporary voices, offers a wealth of stories that reflect culture, imagination, and intellectual exploration. Here are five exciting new French books to dive into in 2025, many of which have been translated into English:
1. Impossible City: Paris in the Twenty-First Century by Simon Kuper
In this insightful blend of memoir and social commentary, Simon Kuper reflects on his two decades in Paris, sharing personal anecdotes about life in the city. His observations touch on themes such as educational elitism, housing challenges, and political dynamics, particularly around Macron’s rise. Kuper’s characteristic wit makes this exploration of Parisian life both engaging and thought-provoking.
2. The Mystery Guest: A True Story by Grégoire Bouillier
Grégoire Bouillier’s memoir captures a surreal evening when he is unexpectedly invited to a dinner party by an ex-lover. This narrative delves into memory, heartbreak, and existential musings, transforming an ordinary event into a profound reflection on life’s unpredictability. Bouillier’s ability to intertwine raw emotion with philosophical depth resonates deeply, making this a compelling read.
3. The New French Look (Style Study, 1) by Lauren Li
Lauren Li’s exploration of contemporary French aesthetics offers a fresh perspective on what defines French style. This first installment in the Style Study series examines how tradition and innovation blend in fashion, interiors, and lifestyle. With insightful commentary and striking visuals, this book is perfect for design enthusiasts and anyone captivated by the essence of French elegance.
4. Two Years’ Vacation: A New Translation by Jules Verne
This new translation of Jules Verne’s classic novel revitalizes the story of a group of boys shipwrecked on a remote island. As they navigate survival and leadership, Verne’s narrative explores themes of independence and human resilience. The updated translation makes this timeless adventure accessible to modern readers, while still capturing the excitement of Verne’s original storytelling.
5. The Silence of the Choir by Mohamed Mbougar Sarr
Renowned Senegalese writer Mohamed Mbougar Sarr delves into themes of identity, memory, and the power of storytelling in this introspective novel. Following the journey of an African writer grappling with his past, Sarr’s narrative explores the artistic and political challenges of the present. With lyrical prose and a nuanced portrayal of exile, this book is a powerful addition to contemporary literature.
These five new French books offer a diverse range of themes and styles, from personal memoirs to classic adventures and explorations of identity. As you embark on your reading journey in 2025, these selections promise to enrich your understanding of modern French storytelling and its cultural significance.
