Amélie Nothomb leaves her historic publisher Albin Michel for Gallimard

It’s a rumor that was buzzing within the republic of letters. According to information from Le Parisien confirmed to Le Figaro, Amélie Nothomb is indeed leaving her lifelong home, Albin Michel, to join Gallimard, rue Gaston-Gallimard, in the 7th arrondissement. A small earthquake in the literary world.

Amélie Nothomb has published a novel every literary year since 1992, she is the only author who has managed to make the news for thirty-four years. Crowned with the Grand Prix du roman de l’Académie française in 1999 and the Prix Renaudot 2021, she has sold millions of copies. Born in Belgium, her reputation is worldwide. His loyalty too, which is why the information of his departure surprises everyone. But since the dismissal of Albin Michel from Florence Godfernaux, director of communications and the press service, who has accompanied her as press officer and friend since her beginnings, the rumor has been growing. The arrival of the latter at Gallimard was also confirmed this Thursday, at the end of a successful week for the publishing house, which won the Renaudot and Femina prizes.

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Iconic writer

Amélie Nothomb is an emblematic writer, who has won over both critics and the public. This is undoubtedly one of the biggest editorial “coups” of recent years with Guillaume Musso moving from XO editions to Calmann-Lévy. And a hard blow for Albin Michel, who had already lost Pierre Lemaitre, Goncourt 2013, who had also joined Calmann-Lévy.

Amélie Nothomb is atypical, she is the only novelist to have never missed a single fall start since 1992. Which is exceptional. And she made a name for herself from her first title Hygiene of the Assassin.

Le Figaro asked her about this longevity and asked her the question “Which literary entry had the most impact on her?” » She responded with her legendary humor and frankness: “The first, in 1992, was the most overwhelming, I was overjoyed and scared to death. I was convinced that it was fleeting, that it would last three sparkling months and that it would be over. I was already very happy, I didn't imagine for a single moment what was going to follow. The publication of Stupeur et Tremblements was also a turning point: in 1999, I became a “bestseller”. »

The ephemeral has lasted for thirty-four years.