Joseph Kessel

Joseph Kessel was a French journalist and novelist. He was a member of the Académie française and is known for his works such as 'Belle de Jour' and 'Army of Shadows'.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Horsemen

    The Story of the French Foreign Legion

    Set in the rugged landscape of Afghanistan, the story follows the journey of a young man named Uraz, who is determined to prove his worth and honor in the traditional and perilous sport of buzkashi, a fierce and chaotic game played on horseback. After suffering a devastating injury, Uraz faces a grueling struggle to reclaim his pride and position within his tribe, confronting both physical and emotional challenges. The narrative delves into themes of resilience, cultural heritage, and the relentless pursuit of personal redemption against the backdrop of a harsh and unforgiving environment.

    The 5085th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. Le Lion

    The novel is a heartwarming tale set in the vast savannahs of Kenya, where a young girl forms an extraordinary bond with a majestic lion. This friendship transcends the natural boundaries between human and beast, highlighting the beauty and power of nature, as well as the complexities of growing up. The narrative explores themes of love, respect, and the delicate balance of coexistence between humans and wildlife, all while painting a vivid picture of life in the African wilderness. Through the eyes of the young protagonist, readers are invited to consider the profound impact of our interactions with the natural world.

    The 5114th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. Tous N'étaient Pas Des Anges

    Set against the backdrop of a post-war world, the narrative delves into the lives of a diverse group of individuals whose paths intersect in unexpected ways. Each character, with their own unique struggles and aspirations, navigates the complexities of human nature, revealing both the darkness and light within. As their stories unfold, themes of redemption, moral ambiguity, and the quest for identity emerge, painting a vivid portrait of humanity's enduring spirit amidst chaos and uncertainty.

    The 6003rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. Belle De Jour

    The Diary of a London Call Girl

    In this provocative exploration of desire and identity, a young and beautiful Parisian housewife, Séverine, finds herself trapped in a life of mundane domesticity. To escape her ennui and explore her hidden fantasies, she begins leading a double life as a high-class escort during the afternoons, adopting the pseudonym "Belle de Jour." As she navigates this clandestine world, Séverine grapples with the complexities of her own desires, the boundaries of her marriage, and the societal expectations placed upon her, ultimately leading to a profound and unsettling revelation about her true self.

  5. 5. The Moon And The Other

    Set in a future where humanity has colonized the Moon, the narrative unfolds in the matriarchal society of the "Society of Cousins," where women hold the reins of power and men are often relegated to secondary roles. The story delves into the lives of several characters, exploring themes of gender dynamics, political intrigue, and personal freedom. As tensions rise between the Society and the more traditional lunar colonies, the characters must navigate a complex web of relationships and societal expectations, ultimately questioning the very foundations of their world.

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  6. 7. Eat Sweat Play

    How Sport Can Change Our Lives

    A passionate exploration of how sport can empower women and girls, this book exposes the cultural, structural, and biological myths that keep them on the sidelines—from body image and periods to pregnancy, safety, and media bias. Blending reportage, research, and personal testimony, it celebrates the joy of movement while challenging sexism, inaccessible facilities, and outdated PE practices. It offers practical, inclusive ways to reclaim play, arguing that making sport welcoming for all can transform individual lives and society.