Photo : © Mymyberries
Youth Highlight: Eat, Being Eaten
Forget cozy fairy tales and dive into the wilder side of classic fables where the line between diner and dinner often blurs. Across various local libraries, creators peel back the layers of our favorite bedtime stories to reveal the power dynamics hidden in every bite.
About
From November 3 to December 31, 2026, the Manger, être mangé festival takes place across twenty libraries in Paris. This free event series examines the symbolism of the dining table and the fears lurking in classic fairy tales such as Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel. Featuring appearances by various authors and illustrators, the program explores how food defines identity and power dynamics in children's literature. Whether you are a fan of traditional stories or interested in a deeper analysis of these childhood motifs, this event is open to everyone and provides a unique perspective on our foundational fears.
From November 3rd to December 31st, the "Eat, Being Eaten" event will be held in around twenty libraries through numerous events, with the participation of authors and illustrators. On one hand, the dining table, the object-place, a place of obligation, indulgence, and sharing where flavors throughout the day rhythm childhood and shape identities. And at the end of the table, behind the window, the worrying shadow of the ogre. Between Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel, Tom Thumb and the Gingerbread Man, the threat of ending up on someone else's plate runs through the stories like a foundational chill.
These stories remind us that eating is also a question of power and that in the world of fairy tales, the smallest learn quickly that it is better to have long teeth.
Our take on this event
Running from November 3 to December 31, 2026, the Manger, être mangé initiative transforms twenty local libraries into spaces for reflection and storytelling. The program investigates the dining table as a central setting, balancing its role as a place of sharing and pleasure with the darker, threatening shadows found in folklore. Through a range of scheduled activities, authors and illustrators guide attendees through the symbolism of consumption in classic tales like The Gingerbread Man or Tom Thumb.
Participants will explore how these narratives highlight the power struggles inherent in eating, where the smallest characters must often be the quickest to survive. The events are designed to provoke thought on how these childhood stories continue to shape our perceptions of danger and growth.
All activities included in this festival are completely free of charge. It is an excellent opportunity to discover the resources available in the participating libraries while engaging with contemporary authors in a meaningful way. Check the schedules of the various venues to plan your visits throughout the two-month period.
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