Franceinfo Culture has released its second list of notable novels from the 461 new books published between mid-August and October 2026. The list highlights a diverse selection of works, including titles by authors such as Anne Godard, Thélyson Orélien, Polina Panassenko, and others. These books are being considered for prestigious French literary awards, including the Goncourt and Femina prizes, which are among the most respected in the literary world.
One of the standout titles is "Nous aussi" by Anne Godard, which explores the process of a family reconstructing its identity through the deconstruction of its shared narrative, focusing on a 30-year period of collective amnesia. The novel is currently in the first selection for both the Goncourt and Femina prizes. Similarly, "C'était ça ou mourir" by Thélyson Orélien follows the journey of a migrant from Haiti to the United States, and is also in the first selection for the same awards. This novel delves into themes of displacement, survival, and the search for a new beginning.
Another notable work is "À voix haute" by Polina Panassenko, which examines the legacy of victims of the Soviet Goulag system. The novel is in the first selection for the Femina prize and offers a poignant reflection on historical trauma. Meanwhile, "La solitude des professeurs est infinie" by Yannick Haenel tells the story of a young teacher's experience in the 1990s, capturing the emotional and professional challenges of the time. This book is also in the first selection for the Femina prize.
Other titles on the list include "La Guerre éternelle" by Olivier Rolin, which is an exploration of contemporary wars and is in the first selection for the Goncourt prize. "Choses que je croyais perdues" by Clémentine Mélois uses everyday objects to narrate a fictional breakup, and is in the first selection for the Femina prize. Additionally, "La Hantise" by Jean-Philippe Toussaint weaves together themes of love, espionage, and a mysterious USB key, set against the backdrop of European institutions. The list also features "Comme la viande aime le sel" by Maria McCann, set in 17th century England during a time of revolution. A debut novel, "Le Grand Rêve noir" by Rob Franklin, is also mentioned, focusing on a young man's struggle with addiction and societal pressures.
Franceinfo Culture Highlights 2026 Literary Selections
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
literaturefrancenovelsgoncourtfemina2026



