Chanson douce

About “Chanson douce”

When a mother of two young children decides, despite her husband's reluctance, to return to work at a law firm, the couple begins searching for a nanny. After a strict selection process, they hire Louise, who quickly wins the children's affection and becomes a central figure in their home. Over time, a mutual dependency develops, leading to a tragic outcome. Through the portrayal of the young couple and the enigmatic nanny, the novel reveals aspects of modern society, including ideas about love, education, power dynamics, and class and cultural prejudices. Leïla Slimani's sharp and cutting style, with glimpses of dark poetry, creates an engaging suspense from the beginning.