Miguel Bonnefoy Wins 2024 Femina Prize
The prestigious 2024 Femina Prize was awarded to Miguel Bonnefoy on November 5 for his novel "Le Rêve du jaguar" (The Dream of the Jaguar), as confirmed by the publisher to Le Parisien. Bonnefoy, a French-Venezuelan author, has garnered acclaim for his family and historical narratives that explore the connections between South America and France. At 37 years old, he has already received the Grand Prix du Roman from the Académie française for the same work, highlighting his growing prominence in the literary world.
A Notable Literary Achievement
Bonnefoy’s novel, published by Rivages in August, showcases a rich and baroque family saga that has captured the attention of literary critics and juries alike. His writing is celebrated for its vibrancy and nuanced exploration of history. Upon receiving the Grand Prix du roman, Bonnefoy expressed his gratitude, stating, "It is with immense happiness, with great humility too, that I receive this distinction. I have a belly full of books still to come, so thank you for this confidence."
Recognition for Other Authors
While Bonnefoy’s victory is significant, the Femina Prize also recognized other talented authors. The Prix Femina étranger was awarded to Chilean writer Alia Trabucco Zeran for her psychological novel "Propre," which delves into the life of a domestic worker in Santiago. This powerful narrative offers a tragic reflection on themes of time, power dynamics, and societal conventions, further enriching the landscape of contemporary literature.
