I just finished a book that feels both charmingly old-fashioned and surprisingly fresh. Tristan Bernard wrote L'enfant prodigue du Vésinet in 1914, but the questions it asks about family and truth still hit home.

The Story

The plot revolves around a well-to-do, settled gentleman living in the affluent Parisian suburb of Le Vésinet. His quiet, orderly life is thrown into delightful chaos when a handsome and persuasive young man arrives at his door. This stranger announces he is the gentleman's son, the result of a forgotten youthful romance. The rest of the book follows the upheaval this causes. Is this young man telling the truth? Is he a genuine 'prodigal son' returning home, or a smooth-talking fraud looking for an inheritance? The story plays out with wit and keen observation as everyone—the gentleman, his family, and their social circle—reacts to this sudden disruption.

Why You Should Read It

Bernard was famous for his humor, and it sparkles here. He doesn't just create a simple mystery; he uses it to poke gentle fun at bourgeois manners, social pretensions, and how quickly gossip spreads. The characters feel real—flawed, funny, and sometimes a bit ridiculous. You'll find yourself smiling at their conversations and changing allegiances. It’s less a heavy drama and more a clever, lighthearted social comedy that makes you think.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect read for anyone who enjoys classic stories with a modern feel. If you like witty dialogue, clever plots, and a glimpse into a bygone era without the stuffiness, you'll love this. It’s for readers who appreciate authors like P.G. Wodehouse or early 20th-century social satires. A short, smart, and genuinely entertaining novel that proves some family dilemmas are truly timeless.