As the new literary season unfolds with the arrival of September in France, we compiled a reading list for the occasion. Whether it is a novel, a piece on humanitarian work, a philosophical book or any other genre, we hope that page after page, this selection will inspire you, move you, or awaken your spirit and desire to act for a fairer world, as these books have done for us. Enjoy the discovery!
Tuesdays with Morrie – Mitch Albom
“This book serves as a meaningful reminder of the value of living a life full of love, connection, and purpose. The plot is based on the reunion of a university professor (Morrie) with an old student (Mitch). Morrie becomes a mentor and friend to Mitch as he nears the end of his life, sharing his unique views and wisdom with him and the reader”. Remembering the essence of life
The Patience Stone – Atiq Rahimi
I can safely say that this is the book that transformed me into a peaceful feminist. The author very skillfully describes the feelings of an afghan woman. This is even more touching because he gives voice to women who otherwise are voiceless. Very deservingly, the book was awarded the prestigious Prix Goncourt 2008. Get moved
The Inheritance of Loss – Kiran Desa
The book simply flows from start to end. I’ve read it 3 times because of how beautifully it’s written. It’s a book about a person facing an identity crisis. Even though it’s a work of fiction, I could connect it with so many contemporary issues. Recharge your batteries.
Girl, Woman, Other – Bernardine Evaristo
This amazing book presents 12 portraits of Afro-British women and non binary whose paths and ambitions are deeply shaped by family origins or skin color, but whose fears, successes and dreams speak to all of humanity. Funny thing : the book is written without capitals and punctuation which the story a beautiful flow. Allow yourself to be surprised
Poor Economics – Esther Duflo, Abhijit Banerjee
The authors analyze poverty by placing at the heart of their questioning the various problems encountered on a daily basis by people suffering from poverty. Their aim is to provide a detailed picture of how people living below the poverty line live, and to understand how policy interventions affect their lives, so that policy-makers can design more effective interventions to address it. Change your view
A Flower in the Midst of Thorns – Jhamak Ghimire
This book is the memoir of Ms. Jhamak Ghimire (the author), she is a living example of courage, perseverance and HOPE. Born in a remote part of Nepal with functional limitations and zero knowledge of support, Jhamak proved nothing is impossible in the world if you have extreme desire and your continuous efforts can erase the word IMPOSSIBLE. Anytime I feel I am having difficulty dealing with challenges with life I go through this book which always refills me back with energy. Connect with your inner strength
The Art of Loosing – Alice Zeniter
Through three generations of an uprooted family following the constrained and forced exile of Ali’s grandfather, harki threatened with death during the decolonization Algerian war; Alice Zeniter tells us about the consequences of the war in Algeria but also the consequences on generations of men, women. A touching novel which also speaks of this feeling of having lost one’s roots, of being stuck between two nationalities and of not really knowing one’s family nor the country of his ancestors. Dive in
Pachinko – Min Jee Lin
Through the story of 4 generations of a Korean family, this book is about Japanese-Korean relations, an intimate and poignant story that shows the sacrifices immigrants make to find their place in foreign lands. This beautiful book speaks of resilience, love and family, with harsh realities but always fair and beautiful words. and it’s also a great book for traveling and immersing yourself in Nipponese culture. Escape
Siddhartha – Hermann Hess
“Siddhartha” by Hermann Hesse is a profound novel that follows the spiritual journey of a young man named Siddhartha in ancient India. It delves into themes of self-discovery, enlightenment, and the pursuit of meaning in life. Wonder
What You Are Looking for is in the Library – Michiko Aoyama
It is a warm, realistic and wise novel about finding one’s path through the uncertainty of life. It is also an ode to community, to the interdependence of human beings, and obviously… to the libraries! I recommend this book to anyone feeling at an impasse in their life and in need of a spark of inspiration. Get inspired