The Pagnol and Jaubert families continue to spend their summer vacations in the neighboring village of La Treille, nestled in the hills at the foot of Garlaban, a famous bald mountain “crowned with goats” in the Marseille region. Young Marcel resumes his explorations in the Provençal garrigue under the sweltering sun of southern France, where he meets Lili des Bellons, who soon becomes his friend and mentor. Together, they play, venture along sun-drenched trails, and craft bird traps. Marcel quickly becomes fascinated by this vibrant, free-spirited character.

In Le Château de ma mère, Marcel Pagnol (1895-1974) continues to recount his childhood with the same storytelling flair characteristic of the Provençal galejaire. The author’s childhood memories unfold like a tale, filled with colorful and refreshing characters, comedic humor, sunny landscapes, and infinite tenderness for those who shaped his early years. However, as the First World War loomed on the horizon, these carefree days began to give way to painful realizations: time is slipping away, and life is dazzlingly fragile.

Le Château de ma mère, published in 1957, is a direct sequel to La Gloire de mon père, which we’ve already read in the French Book Club. However, it can be enjoyed independently, even without having read the first installment. By the time he began writing these two novels, Pagnol was already a famous and beloved director, screenwriter, and author in France. He later added two more episodes to the series, one in 1960 and another published posthumously in 1977.  

Pagnol remains widely read and celebrated in France, recognized as the quintessential representative of a regionalist literature that he made universal. He is a herald of southern France, depicting it with authenticity, humor, and charm, while addressing themes that are as contemporary as they are timeless. His books are now considered classics of 20th century French literature.