Philippe Besson
In 1999, while working as a jurist, Philippe Besson found himself moved by the poignant testimonies of First World War veterans. This emotional resonance sparked the creation of his debut novel, In the Absence of Men, a powerful story that would go on to earn the Emmanuel-Roblès Prize.
Besson continued to write with remarkable sensitivity and literary skill. His 2002 novel L’Arrière-saison was awarded the Grand Prix RTL-Lire in 2003, a recognition of his growing stature in French literature. Soon after, Un garçon d’Italie garnered further acclaim, earning nominations for both the Goncourt Prize and the Médicis Prize.
With his stories resonating deeply with readers and critics alike, Besson chose to leave his legal career behind and devote himself entirely to writing, a decision that marked the beginning of a rich and enduring literary journey.
Books by Philippe Besson
In the Absence of Men
In the Absence of Men is a hilarious and heartwarming romantic comedy about one woman’s desperate lie that spirals into the most unexpected summer of her life.