Nathalie Bernard wins the 5th edition of the Chateaubriand prize for middle school students
The Chateaubriand Prize for middle school students has once again delighted with its dynamism and commitment to literature. In its 5th edition, the prize was awarded to Nathalie Bernard for her work entitled “The Guardian of the Forest,” published by Thierry Magnier. This prize, a symbol of recognition and appreciation for children’s literature, takes on a special dimension in 2025, as it opens to a wider audience with middle school students from various French-speaking schools.
The Chateaubriand Prize: an institution in constant evolution
Created in 1987 by the Hauts-de-Seine Departmental Council, the Chateaubriand Prize aims to promote literary and historical creation. Each year, it rewards works related to history, bedding, or subjects concerning cultural heritage. In 2025, the Prix des Collégiens (High School Students’ Prize) broadened its scope by involving French-speaking schools in the countries where Chateaubriand served as an ambassador. This initiative allows students to immerse themselves in other cultures and discover different approaches to literature. Participating students have the opportunity to read two novels before voting for their favorite. This year, “La Gardienne de la forêt” (The Guardian of the Forest) was competing against “Le Souffle du puma” (The Breath of the Puma) by Laurine Roux. The journey leading up to the awards ceremony is enriching: students participate in writing workshops, meet authors, and take part in book discussions. All these exchanges are invaluable, as they help develop their critical thinking and analytical skills. Here is an overview of the key steps students follow in this program:
Reading selected works
- Writing and literary analysis workshops
- Meetings with authors
- Visit to Chateaubriand’s House
- Awards ceremony
- School
| Grade | Thomas Mazaryk Middle School |
|---|---|
| Grade 7 | Pierre Brossolette Middle School |
| Grade 6 | Les Ormeaux Middle School |
| Grade 9 | Saint-Justin Middle School in Levallois-Perret |
| Grade 9 | Chateaubriand High School in Rome |
| Grade 7 | The award ceremony took place in May, an event that attracts a large audience each year and highlights the importance of reading in the education of young people. During this event, students not only had the opportunity to meet Nathalie Bernard, but also to receive an illustrated edition of “Atala,” Chateaubriand’s first novel, thus strengthening the connection between the writer’s work and today’s youth. |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCUeviJjZC0Nathalie Bernard and her literary career
Sur le meme sujet
The plot of “The Guardian of the Forest” immerses the reader in a world where nature is both a refuge and a battleground in ecological crises. Young readers are encouraged to reflect on their own impact on the environment while following the adventures of a charismatic character. This work is the result of the author’s detailed and rigorous research on the topics covered. The author also participated in various workshops and conferences, sharing her experience and approach to writing. This demonstrates the importance of culture in the lives of young people, particularly through practical elements such as: research on contemporary themes Interactions with experts in ecology and literature A connection between fiction and realityThe award won by Nathalie Bernard is much more than a simple literary distinction. It represents an encouragement for young writers to continue exploring their passions and honing their creative voice. By receiving this prize, she also inspires other teenagers to engage in writing and reading, showing them that it is possible to make their voices heard through captivating and meaningful stories.
Work Theme
- Target audience
- The Guardian of the Forest
- Ecology and adventure
Young adult
| The Breath of the Puma | Adventure and cultural discovery | Young adult |
|---|---|---|
| https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu1EUpSn6RM | The student engagement process | Participating in the Chateaubriand Prize is not just a simple act of reading; it is a true engagement process that invites students to reflect on broad topics. Middle school students are actively involved throughout the school year, both through practical activities and personal reflection. Teachers play a vital role in this endeavor, guiding them by leading discussions and fostering an environment conducive to exchange. |
| This dynamic translates into several significant actions: | Classroom discussions on the themes of the books |
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Organizing literary events to celebrate the readings
Holding debates also helps strengthen young people’s critical thinking skills. They learn to formulate arguments, listen to others’ viewpoints, and defend their opinions—essential skills in a world where communication is paramount. Each year, middle school students have the opportunity to visit iconic locations such as the Institut de France, where they can interact with members of the Academy, making their experience even more enriching. The importance of this intercultural and educational dialogue is underscored by meetings with renowned figures, some of whom are closely linked to literature, such as:
Lucien Bély – Academy of Moral and Political Sciences
- Étienne Ghys – Academy of Sciences
- Dominique Michelet – Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres
- Date
Event March 18, 2025Visit to the Institut de France
- April 3, 2025
- Meeting with Étienne Ghys
- April 29, 2025
| Discussion with Lucien Bély | The Impact of the Chateaubriand Prize on Culture and Education |
|---|---|
| The Chateaubriand Prize for Middle School Students plays a fundamental role in promoting literary culture among young people. It allows, in a concrete way, for the development of a genuine passion for reading and writing. Beyond the fun aspect, middle school students engage in discussions about contemporary issues, thus developing their ability to understand the world around them. | The lessons learned from this experience go far beyond simple reading. Students learn to: |
| Analyze texts in depth | Develop an awareness of contemporary issues |
| Design projects related to literature | The prize jury, composed of academics and literary professionals, also contributes to the prize’s legitimacy. The presence of renowned guests at the ceremonies reinforces this link between education and the cultural sphere, promoting the appreciation of writing. By inviting established authors and showcasing the work of students, the prize inspires a generation of budding writers, highlighting literary achievements that deserve to be celebrated. Furthermore, this prestigious ceremony emphasizes the essential interaction between education and culture. It provides a platform that facilitates: |
Sur le meme sujet
Intergenerational exchange
Celebration of innovative storytelling Support for literary initiatives within the community Selection criteria
Importance
- Literary quality of the works
- Essential for promoting reading
- Student engagement
Promotes personal and cultural development
- Contemporary themes addressed
- Strengthens understanding of the modern world
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