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Le Passé devant soi
Gilbert Gatore

An adopted child, Isaro had until recently lived a carefree existence as a student in Paris. But one day, the tragic news the radio brings about her homeland becomes unbearable to her. Caught in her history, Isaro tries to weave together the threads of her original tragedy : the massacre of her entire family by an enemy tribe. This attempt, which takes her to Africa, will plunge her into a deeply afflicted state…

Simple-minded Niko’s body is as harmonious as his teeth are hideous. Since the end of the civil war that swept through his village, he has lived as a recluse in a cave that he shares with apes. In this destitute state, in proximity with animals, he tries to forget the acts he committed.

These two intense narratives, equally vibrant with colour, weave together, breathing life into the fascinating characters who must face issues of responsibility, guilt, redemption and death.

A first novel from a young author of Rwandan roots who will need to be reckoned with. The Past before you is strikingly original, and its writing style powerfully evocative. Swept along by phantasmagorical images, spiced with traditional colors and weighted with concrete impressions, as it subtly blends the traumatic experiences of two people with opposing experiences of an undeclared war.
Le Passé devant soi -
  • Available material :
    Finished copy

  • Phébus
  • Littérature française
  • Novel
  • Publication date : 03/01/2008
  • Size : 14 x 20,5 cm, 224 p., 18,75 EUR €
  • ISBN 978-2-7529-0309-9
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