Photo : DR
Clément: a meeting with Romain Lemire and Céline Rastello
As part of the days against sexist and sexual violence in partnership with the 19th Arrondissement Town Hall, the Jacqueline Dreyfus-Weill library offers you a meeting with the artist and writer Romain Lemire, author of the book "Clément", winner of the 2026 Goncourt Prize for a First Novel.
Bibliothèque Jacqueline Dreyfus-Weill (Paris 19th)
About
On Thursday, November 26, 2026, at 7:30 PM, come meet Romain Lemire, author of Clément, winner of the 2026 Goncourt Prize for a First Novel. The meeting will be moderated by Céline Rastello, a journalist at Nouvel Obs, and will be followed by a book signing with the Librairie l'Atelier Jourdain.
"Of course, Romain Lemire's book is sober, moving, committed, but, above all, it is salutary." François Morel
This is the story of a happy childhood, that of Clément.
It is the portrait of his loving and cultivated family, between a literature professor father and a publisher mother, where everything seems to be going for the best. It is the lively and colorful chronicle of his friendships, his loves, his desires, and his dreams. It is the France of the eighties.
But it is also the story of an ordinary crime, incest, and a deafening silence. From this rift is born a feeling of loneliness in the midst of others, of doubt, of wandering, which alters his perception of the world and his relationship to life.
Carried by writing that is impressively accurate and frank, which evolves along with the narrator's age, Clément entices, surprises, moves, and, ultimately, illuminates. Because despite the tragedy, against all odds, it affirms the possibility of joy.
Céline Rastello, a journalist in the Investigation department of Le Nouvel Obs, has been working on sexist and sexual violence for over ten years. She will talk with Romain Lemire about his work, which is as remarkable as it is necessary.
Clément by Romain Lemire, pub. Le Cherche-Midi, published April 9, 2026; Credits: DROur take on this event
Behind every polished childhood facade can lie hidden scars, and this poignant new book navigates that terrain with incredible emotional courage. Join us for a candid discussion where the author unpacks his journey from silence to self-discovery alongside a renowned journalist. It is a rare chance to engage with a story that, despite its heavy themes, ultimately serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
