Mona's Eyes was Barnes and Nobles' Book of the Year for 2025.
French Art historian and novelist Thomas Schlesser joins art historian Beth Gersh-Nesic to discuss his brilliant coming-of-age novel about a 10-year-old girl who loses her sight for an hour and then spends a year learning how to see, guided by her beloved grandfather, Henry, whom she calls Dadé.
Together they visit the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay, and Centre Pompidou to study one artwork each week because Henry wants Mona to memorize all the beauty and knowledge that art masterpieces can deliver, if indeed she becomes blind one day.
Thanks to their lively banter, Mona and the reader learn about life, love, and how to look for the wisdom artists may convey through their art. Professor Schlesser will also tell the audience about his new novel, recently released in France, Le Chat du Jardinier (Albin Michel, 2026).
💻 Location: Online (a link will be sent upon registration)
📅 Date: Thur. April, 16
⏰ Time: 1 PM - 2PM
👥 Level: All levels - In English
🎟️ Fee: free for members ; $10 non-members
An event offered by the Fédération des Alliances françaises - USA.