498. Bonjour Tristesse

Bonjour Tristesse
Francoise Sagan
1954
Around 155 pages

Okay, now I am really starting to get insecure with this string of fantastic debut novels. Francoise Sagan was only 19 when she wrote this, and apparently it was an overnight sensation. As the story is told from the perspective of Cecile, a 17-year-old, Sagan's youth really makes Cecile feel authentic. 

Cecile spends her summer with her philandering father Raymond and his current mistress Elsa. Cecile enjoys their non taxing lifestyle in a villa on the French Riviera. Cecile feels their way of life is threatened after Raymond becomes engaged to Anne, a friend of his late wife. Cecile determines to break them up, Parent Trap style. Well, not quite, but she does exploit Raymond's jealousy to drive Anne crazy.

Cecile's actions are selfish, but Sagan manages to make her sympathetic, because of her youth, inexperience, and subjugation to an irresponsible father. Although I do appreciate Raymond justifying his cheating by quoting Oscar Wilde. Unfortunately, Sagan never achieved the same level of success with any other novel, but this is still an impressive story to hang your hat on. 

RATING: ****-

Interesting Facts:

Adapted into a movie by Otto Preminger in 1958, starring Deborah Kerr.

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