book l’enfant de noe

lenfant de noe book by eric-emmanuel schmitt

explore the profound themes and compelling narrative of "lenfant de noé" by eric-emmanuel schmitt. this evocative novel takes readers on a journey through a childs perspective amidst one of historys darkest periods, offering insights into faith, identity, and the enduring power of humanity. discover a story that resonates deeply, prompting reflection on courage and resilience when faced with immense adversity.

lenfant de noe summary

set in brussels during the height of world war ii in 1942, "lenfant de noé" tells the story of seven-year-old joseph bernstein. as nazi roundups of jewish families escalate, josephs parents make the agonizing decision to protect him by entrusting him to the care of father pons, a compassionate catholic priest. joseph is hidden in a catholic boarding school, the villa jaune, where he must conceal his jewish identity and pretend to be christian. within this new, unfamiliar environment, joseph navigates the complexities of war and faith, forming an unlikely friendship with rudy and learning profound lessons about life, love, and survival. father pons, embodying the spirit of noah, endeavors not only to save lives but also to preserve the rich tapestry of jewish culture and identity for the children under his protection. the narrative unfolds through josephs innocent yet perceptive eyes, highlighting the absurdity of prejudice and the universal search for belonging.

the novel is part of schmitts "cycle de linvisible," which explores major world religions through the lens of childhood experiences. "lenfant de noé" specifically delves into the relationship between judaism and christianity during the holocaust, examining themes of religious identity, tolerance, and mutual respect. father ponss character is central, representing a figure of resistance and cultural preservation, actively working to maintain jewish heritage within the confines of the boarding school. josephs journey is one of accelerated maturation, as he grapples with fear, confusion, and the dawning understanding of the worlds injustices, all while forming deep connections and discovering the strength of his own identity. the story culminates with the liberation, and the subsequent challenges of returning to a semblance of normal life, emphasizing the lasting impact of wartime experiences.

1. full book name: lenfant de noé
2. author name: eric-emmanuel schmitt
3. genre: historical fiction, young adult fiction, religious fiction
4. page: approximately 120-188 pages (depending on edition)
5. isbn: 2-226-15108-7 (for one edition)
6. asin: not readily available for this specific title in a consistent manner across all platforms.
7. edition language: french
8. date of publication: april 14, 2004 (first publication by albin michel)

about the author eric-emmanuel schmitt

eric-emmanuel schmitt is a highly acclaimed franco-belgian playwright, novelist, and filmmaker, born in 1960. he studied philosophy and music before embarking on a prolific writing career. his works, translated into numerous languages, have gained international recognition for their exploration of profound human themes, spirituality, and the complexities of faith. schmitt is celebrated for his ability to tackle sensitive subjects with both intellectual depth and emotional resonance, often through the eyes of children, making his stories accessible and impactful across diverse cultures and age groups.

lenfant de noe faq

1. what is the main plot of "lenfant de noé"?

   the novel follows joseph, a seven-year-old jewish boy in 1942 brussels, who is hidden in a catholic boarding school by father pons to escape nazi persecution. he must pretend to be christian while his identity and faith are subtly preserved by the priest.

2. who is father pons?

   father pons is a central character, a kind and wise catholic priest who runs the boarding school where joseph is hidden. he actively works to save jewish children and preserve their cultural heritage, acting as a beacon of hope and resilience during a time of immense danger.

3. what are the main themes in "lenfant de noé"?

   the book explores themes of religious identity, tolerance, friendship, courage, the impact of war on children, and the complex relationship between judaism and christianity during the holocaust. it questions prejudice and highlights the importance of preserving ones culture and humanity.

4. is "lenfant de noé" based on a true story?

   while the novel is a work of fiction, it is inspired by historical events and figures, particularly the stories of jewish children hidden in religious institutions during world war ii. father pons is inspired by real-life "juste" figures who risked their lives to save others.

5. what is the "cycle de linvisible"?

   "lenfant de noé" is part of eric-emmanuel schmitts "cycle de linvisible," a series of novels that explore different major world religions—judaism, christianity, islam, and buddhism—through the innocent yet insightful perspectives of children.