Le Petit Nicolas (French Edition)
by Sempe-Goscinny
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Book Reviews of Le Petit Nicolas (French Edition)
Book Review: The joy of being a petit garçon in the early 60s
Summary: 5 Stars
Like most non-Fench people I was introduced to "Le Petit Nicolas" in my French class. It sounded strange for a bunch of adults to read a book that is for 9-12 year-old kids. But, alas, it is not strange. On the contrary! That is a great idea, for many reasons. To begin with, the text has an easy vocabulary and uses words that are used in the everyday language -- different to the highbrow literature that would be impossible to a debutant read.
"Nicolas" is also great because it is funny. Even for those who aren't French, who don't understand French Culture, they can laugh with this boy and his peers. These characters somehow make we believe that being a child is the same everywhere.
On a deeper level, "Le Petit Nicolas" can be an effective sociological portray of being a child in the early 60s in France. The garçon's life shows a middle-class family dealing with `problems' --ok, not very serious one, this a book for children, after all-- like not having a TV, or when the kid has low marks. But, everything is dealt with a funny approach.
With his peculiar vision of the world --everything is seen through Nicolas' eyes-- and his `problems', this little boy shows to the grown-ups who delightful it can be to be a child. Even if we have forgotten that.
Book Review: very very funny stuff
Summary: 5 Stars
A collection of stories told from the perspective of a young French boy, Le Petit Nicolas is charming and extremely hilarious! I have not read this book in many years, but I never forgot the stories and cartoon drawings that cracked me up so much. The chapter where he smokes cigars, entitled "Je Fume," comes to mind as one of my favorites. Also, for me it was not just the stories themselves, but the way he tells them that make it so funny. I'd had a couple of years of French in high school and in college before I read this, and while that was more than enough background to enjoy it immensely, there were parts that were difficult to understand. Many phrases, like "un coup de poing sur le nez," are easy enough to figure out, and usually the context is enough to clarify things if one gets stumped. In many ways Nicolas reminds me of Calvin, from Calvin and Hobbes. There are not as many pictures (although the ones included are excellent), and while Nicolas has a cleaner haircut, he is no less the rebel for it. This is highly recommended reading for anyone with any ability whatsoever in the French language.Book Review: Wonderful!
Summary: 5 Stars
Rene Goscinny is a wonderfully talented author who has blessed the world with a timeless classic in Le Petit Nicolas. Jean Jacque Sempe's fabulous illustrations add a hilarious twist to an already entertaining book. The funniest chapter is one called "Je suis malade." In this chapter, Nicolas gets sick from eating too much candy. He must stay home from school the next day to recover but he sure can cause a lot of trouble from his bed! This book reminds me of Beverly Cleary's Ramona and it also reminds me of the little prince. I read this book to my brothers every night before they go to bed. The grammar and vocabulary are simple and easy to read. I highly reccommend this book for anyone and everyone who like French and to anyone who simply enjoys a great book!Book Review: sweet, warm humor that transcends culture
Summary: 5 Stars
The author who cowrote the Asterix series once again transcends cultural barriers with his innocent, warm, boyish humor.
This book is an absolute delight. While it seems to be marketed to mature kids, I think that the older the reader, the more it will be liked, particlarly for those nostalgic for a bygone era. Anyone who speaks French at an intermediate level can get through it. However, you'll appreciate it more if you've achieved some fluency and if you've spent some time in France.
I challenge anyone reading it to refrain from smiling, or even laughing out loud. I can't wait to read the other books in the series.
Book Review: a classic
Summary: 5 Stars
Le Petit Nicolas is an excellent book. The stories are memorable and adorable. Readers of all ages can enjoy this book to its fullest extent. As a french student, I have often despised french books geared towards American students with corny simplified french containing close to no plot line. This book is perfect for all learners of french no matter what level, because though it is simple, learners can experience genuine french writing. This book is wonderfully written, capturing the true tone and essence of youth and childhood and the stories will be remembered, reread and loved forever.