You literally cannot go wrong with an Antoine Laurain novel. This one flows between the lives of a handful of characters who come into possession of Francois Mitterrand’s hat. This novel is grounded and mystical, political and romantic, fanciful and inspiring. The translation from Gallic is, as always, gorgeous and really captures a feeling while still providing excellent literature. Any book that suggests a better work-life balance, putting your own self worth above the feelings of cruel men, opening your heart to people, widening your artistic imagination and emotional understanding, etc, is good in my books - but if it’s by Antoine Laurain, it’s going to be perfect.