The young author, already recognized with the Jean d’Ormesson prize for his debut novel released in early 2026, has had his work honored with the Brive City Readers' Prize. This distinction will be awarded at the Brive Book Fair, a major autumn literary event.
Despite being self-taught and not holding a baccalaureate, Christopher Laquieze, aged 30 and specializing in Latin American literature, captivated the 20 prize jurors. His novel, described as enchanting, stands out for its spirited style and unconventional language.
The plot, rooted in the memory and scars of Latin America, unfolds in the fictional village of San Jacinto del Río. The book opens with a striking line: “When Matías Ordoñez denounced his mother, she was hanged the next day in the Plaza Vieja, and no one ever knew whether it was out of love or vengeance that he had condemned her.”
The prize includes a €1,500 endowment from the City of Brive and an invitation for a one-month writing residency in the city. Readers will have the opportunity to meet Christopher Laquieze during events planned during his stay.
Organized by the media library as part of the Book Fair, this prize aims to highlight new literary voices. The 2026 selection, curated by librarians, was praised for its quality and diversity, featuring numerous debut novelists.
