Little What's-his-name

In an idyllic childhood in the south of France, Daniel Eyssette is simply a boy. But when his family's silk business collapses, forcing them into poverty and a grim relocation to Lyon, he becomes "le petit Chose" - the little thing. This cruel nickname, given to him at a new school, follows him as he is thrust prematurely into a world of hardship. Forced to abandon his education, he takes a position as a school usher, where his youth and gentle nature make him an easy target for contempt from both students and colleagues.

With his dreams of becoming a poet seemingly crushed by the harsh realities of his new life, Daniel's only hope lies in Paris, where his devoted older brother, Jacques, works tirelessly to support him. This semi-autobiographical novel is a poignant and deeply moving account of a young man's struggle to maintain his innocence and aspirations against the relentless pressures of society and misfortune. It is an exploration of the painful journey from the idealism of youth to the sobering truths of adulthood.