The Child : L'enfant

This disturbing tale of physical and psychological abuse of their son by his parents is, astonishingly, far from being purely gloomy; lively accounts of many comic, even farcical incidents and the child's indomitable spirit provide constant oases of comfort and joy.

Fresh and subtle sensations of sound and touch, light and color, smells and speeds are rendered in highly personal imaginary, most notably in expressing the enjoyment of natural beauty, although the 'child's' eye also avidly observes the sights and ways of life of various provincial towns, as well as giving us a brief look at student Life in Paris.

Caricature is amply and delightedly exploited. The Child is a tale of sadness and hope, resentment and rejoicing, a very modern tragi-comedy.

English readers deserve access to a book which has long been, and continues to be recognised as a masterpiece in France.