Charles Derennes's La petite faunesse (The Little Fauness) is a quiet novel from 1924 that feels both old-fashioned and surprisingly modern in its concerns.

The Story

The plot follows Claire, a young woman living a conventional life in the French countryside. A series of strange occurrences—an uncanny affinity with animals, a discomfort in crowded places, dreams of deep woods—lead her to a shocking discovery. She learns she is descended from fauns, the mythical half-human, half-goat creatures of the forest. The story then becomes her internal journey. She must grapple with this dual identity: the polite, civilized woman society expects her to be, and the wild, instinctual being whose true home is among the ancient trees.

Why You Should Read It

What I loved most was how Derennes makes Claire's conflict feel so real and urgent. This isn't about magic spells; it's about the ache of not fitting in, of having a part of yourself that doesn't match the world around you. The writing is lush and descriptive, painting the natural world as both a sanctuary and a siren call. Claire is a fascinating character because her struggle is so internal. Her biggest battles are with her own heart and mind.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for readers who enjoy subtle, atmospheric stories where fantasy whispers at the edges of reality. If you liked the mood of books like The Secret Garden but wished for a more mystical, psychological twist, you'll find a lot to love here. It's a slow, thoughtful read for a quiet afternoon, best suited for those who appreciate character studies and beautiful prose over fast-paced action.