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Best French Books

Explore the essence of French literature with this compilation of esteemed books, as voted by major literary platforms and Francophile communities. See which masterpieces are cherished the most around the web.

Recommendations from 14 articles, Richard Branson, PewDiePie, George Bush and 21 others.
22 books on the list
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The Little Prince book cover
The Little Prince
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry - 2000-06-29 (first published in 1943)
Goodreads Rating
Discover the heartwarming story of a little prince and his journey through the galaxy in this beloved classic. Celebrated poet Richard Howard's translation beautifully captures the unique style and spirit of author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. This edition also features restored original artwork, making it a timeless addition to any reader's collection. Suitable for all ages and even chosen as a Common Core Text Exemplar, The Little Prince is a must-read for anyone seeking a tale of friendship, love, and adventure.
The Stranger book cover
The Stranger
Albert Camus - 1989-03-28 (first published in 1942)
Goodreads Rating
Existentialism and the human condition are masterfully explored in this classic novel that follows an ordinary man drawn into a senseless murder. With its profound impact on millions of American readers, it's no wonder why this work remains a timeless masterpiece.
Madame Bovary book cover
Madame Bovary
(Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition)
Gustave Flaubert - 2004-01-01 (first published in 1856)
Goodreads Rating
A bored and beautiful woman named Emma Bovary longs for passion and escapes her mundane life through romantic fantasies, excessive spending, and eventually, adultery. But her affairs only bring disappointment and devastating consequences. Flaubert's portrayal of Emma caused moral outcry in 1857, with many claiming to be the model for his heroine. A classic tale of unfulfilled desires and the consequences that come with them.
Recommended by
Ernest Hemingway
Nicholas book cover
Nicholas
René Goscinny - 1988-01-01 (first published in 1959)
Goodreads Rating
US edition. The day-to-day adventures of an amusing, endearing young school boy....
Les Misérables book cover
Les Misérables
Victor Hugo - 1987-03-03 (first published in 1862)
Goodreads Rating
Follow the story of Jean Valjean, an escaped convict determined to live an honest life in a community that constantly threatens to reveal his criminal past. Victor Hugo's tale of injustice, heroism, and love illustrates the struggles of redemption and sacrifice, as Valjean fights to protect the daughter of a poverty-stricken prostitute. But as Inspector Javert's relentless pursuit jeopardizes his newfound freedom, Valjean must decide how far he's willing to go to keep his promises.
Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea book cover
Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea
Jules Verne - 2002-04-01 (first published in 1869)
Goodreads Rating
Dive deep into the mysterious world beneath the waves in this timeless sci-fi masterpiece. Join Captain Nemo on a thrilling voyage aboard the Nautilus, through brilliantly illustrated pages that bring the ocean and its creatures to life. Perfect for young readers, this retelling of Jules Verne's classic tale is a must-read for any adventure seeker.
The Count of Monte Cristo book cover
The Count of Monte Cristo
Alexandre Dumas - 2003-05-27 (first published in 1844)
Goodreads Rating
Experience the thrilling tale of Edmond Dantès, a dashing young hero who is betrayed by his enemies and thrown into a secret dungeon. Trapped in a dank prison cell for years, he miraculously escapes and seeks revenge. Set against the turbulent years of the Napoleonic era, this widely read romantic novel by Alexandre Dumas paints a dazzling, exuberant vision of France that has become immortal. Abridged by Lowell Blair for an engaging and concise read.
Swann's Way book cover
Swann's Way
Marcel Proust - 1988-03-01 (first published in 1913)
Goodreads Rating
This collectible edition in the Penguin Drop Caps series features "P" for a preeminent novel of childhood and sexual jealousy. Swann's Way by an acclaimed author is an incomparable study of human condition and a perfect rendering of life in art. Get lost in the sensitive boy's impressions of family and neighbors brought to life years later by a taste of a madeleine. Perfect to showcase on your shelves or give as an elegant gift.
The red and the Black book cover
The red and the Black
A Chronicle of 1830
1783-1842 Stendhal - 2002-01-01 (first published in 1830)
Goodreads Rating
This culturally significant work has been preserved by scholars for its historical value. Despite potential flaws due to its age, it remains a valuable part of our civilization's knowledge base. As a reproduction of the original artifact, this work may contain imperfections, but scholars agree it is important enough to be made available to the public. Become a part of preserving this piece of history by exploring its pages.
Recommended by
Ernest Hemingway
Short Stories in French for Beginners book cover
Short Stories in French for Beginners
Olly Richards - 2018-11-13
Goodreads Rating
This collection of eight captivating short stories is perfect for young and adult learners of French. Designed for beginners to intermediate level, these stories cover a variety of exciting genres, from science fiction and crime to history and thriller. You'll learn the 1000 most frequent words, and be able to improve your speaking ability through authentic spoken dialogues. Comprehension questions and a glossary for bolded words are included to make learning stress-free and enjoyable. Whether you're looking to improve your French language skills or simply enjoy reading, Short Stories in French for Beginners is unmissable.
Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
Candide by Francois Voltaire
Les Fleurs Du Mal by Charles Baudelaire
Journey to the End of the Night by Louis-Ferdinand Céline
Germinal by Émile Zola
Hunting and Gathering by Anna Gavalda
The Plague by Albert Camus
Bel-Ami by Guy de Maupassant
Père Goriot by Honoré de Balzac
Therese Raquin by Emile Zola
The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo
The Lover by Marguerite Duras