Prepared a midday meal on that specific day
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Blaise Durivage, a primary school teacher in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, is making waves in the literary world with his forthcoming debut novel, Pis, un jour, il a fallu faire des lunchs. The book, set to be published this fall, offers a unique and heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and LGBTQ+ experiences.
As a teacher and a writer, Durivage is no stranger to delving into themes such as homosexuality, homoparentality, and adoption through a mixed bank. His novel, which focuses on a homosexual parental family with adopted children, one of whom is autistic, promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening read.
The story is narrated by Durivage's alter ego, a character named Blaise, who is raising two children, Elliott and Félix, with his partner Philippe, through the "Mixed Bank" program of the DPJ. The narrator's endearing qualities, such as his silly remarks, thoughts that aren't always noble, and his tendency to judge others, make him a relatable and engaging protagonist.
Pis, un jour, il a fallu faire des lunchs offers a candid portrayal of the fear, sadness, and doubt that have followed the narrator since adolescence, mirroring Durivage's personal journey. The novel also addresses a multitude of timely societal issues with humor and sensitivity, including male homosexuality and homoparentality, complexities of adoption through a mixed bank, challenges faced by neuroatypical children, social pressures of parenthood, and enduring prejudices about what is supposedly masculine and feminine.
The novel highlights the ordinary and extraordinary moments in the life of the family, from sporty days and difficult days to peaceful and enriching moments. Happiness, according to Durivage, is found in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments, including arguments, sulking, apologies, hugs, and tickles. It is also depicted as being difficult and winding, existing in the cracks of the couch, in the Downy fabric softener added to the laundry, and in the LEGO piece found in the dust pile just in time to avoid being sucked up by the vacuum cleaner.
In addition to his debut novel, Durivage is currently working on a second book, which will be less autobiographical than the first. The second novel will focus on the world of teaching and will feature characters who are not the author.
Blaise Durivage's work has been gaining attention in local literary circles, with his debut novel being shortlisted for the Prix de la nouvelle Radio-Canada in 2023. His novel is set to be a must-read for anyone interested in exploring family dynamics, LGBTQ+ experiences, and the complexities of modern life.
[1] Renaud-Bray bookstore [2] Quebec literary platforms [4] Local literary circles
- Blaise Durivage's flair for authentic storytelling in his debut novel, French bookstore Renaud-Bray has already pre-ordered a significant number of copies.
- As the novel delves into homoparentality, relationships, and family dynamics, interested readers are encouraged to Mark their calendars for its release this fall.
- Blaise's future projects include a shift towards the education and self-development genre, focusing on career development and personal growth.
- Aspiring writers and readers can look forward to exploring more of Blaise's unique insights into French cooking lifestyle and inspiration for home-and-garden designs through upcoming books.
- Blaise's heartwarming and relatable portrayal of a homosexual family with pets, captured through the novel, might spark engaging dinner table discussions about family dynamics and social issues.
- In the midst of his literary success, Blaise's love for his family and partners remains unshakeable, a testament to the importance of relationships, even amidst a busy and stimulating career.
- Paging through Blaise's books could serve as an eye-opening journey towards understanding LGBTQ+ experiences, not just for readers within Quebec literary circles, but for a broader audience worldwide.
