Journalist’s ingenuity, writer’s delicacy and a sober outlook on life: Who is the author of “Le Sillon” novel?

A citizen of the world who speaks French, but writes in a universal language. Valerie Manteau depicts interesting incidents, unique faces and tells about them. Journalist’s ingenuity, writer’s delicacy and a sober outlook on life. Sincerity is the key to French writer’s success. 

The 36-year-old author is a famous journalist in France. Valerie Manteau is a former employee of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. Her first serious step in the literary world was back in 2016, when she published her first book. Manteau highlights that the characters of literary pieces are by far the most valuable achievements of the writers.“I care about all the people I meet along the way. Everyone has a unique and very interesting story. I want their voices to be heard.”

In 2017 the French author decided to make a change in her ordinary life and moved to Istanbul. That’s where the idea to write a second book was born. As a result, Manteau published the “Agos” novel. At the core of her book, the French journalist had a story of another journalist. Valerie Manteau walked through the streets of Istanbul in the footsteps of Hrant Dink's legacy. Eventually, she decided to tell the story about the Editor-in-Chief of Agos. This story is about a young woman wandering in the streets of Istanbul.

The book depicts Istanbul with all its colors. Manteau explains that the story is not only about Hrant Dink, but also about the atmosphere, where the journalist lived and fought for justice.  “The book is about the everyday life of Istanbul, the conservative and liberal communities of the city, about individuals and their captivating stories.”

The novel, originally published in French, won the famous French "Renaudot" award and became a French bestseller.