Histoires exotiques et merveilleuses

About this book

"Histoires Exotiques et Merveilleuses" by Pierre Mille is a collection of fictional tales written in the early 20th century. The book explores the experiences of characters in exotic locales, providing a glimpse into diverse cultures and settings. Particularly, it introduces the young protagonist Nâne, who navigates the complexities of life as a colonial child familiar with both her European roots and the indigenous cultures around her. The opening of the work sets the stage for Nâne's journey as she embarks on a journey with her mother aboard a ship, the "Polynésien", from French Indochina to France. Nâne expresses her disdain for the unfamiliar and cramped space of the ship, longing for the gardens and playgrounds of her home in Madagascar. Despite the enchanting memories of her past, she is haunted by fears of the journey, particularly related to the loss of her sister during a previous voyage. Her adventures onboard reveal her youthful innocence as she grapples with the unique mix of cultures that shape her identity, setting the tone for the intriguing tales that will unfold throughout the collection.