Mauritius, a setting for a masterpiece: The Ball of the dodo

Written on : 30 October 2019
By : Melchior Burin des Roziers

In 1989, Geneviève Dormann's "Le Bal du dodo" received the grand prize from the French Academy. The action takes place in the late 1980s in Mauritius, but promises a trip back in time to various existing places that you can discover for yourself during your stay (Pointe aux Piments, Port-Louis, Curepipe, etc.). Here's a must-read book to put in your suitcase before you leave!

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A glance into Mauritius

4,000 French descendants were sent on an expedition by the King in the 18th century and made the island the most important stopover on their route over the Indian ocean. From time to time, you will taste the humorous portraits of the characters in the novel, through a multitude of colourful details. You will also feel the atmosphere of the paintings and furniture of the Hermione, the family home. The Kernoët family, originally from Brittany, who spanned over generations from the colonial period to the most recent belonged to this small society. Geneviève Dormann will take you on the adventures of Bénédicte de Kernoët (known as "Blessed"), the youngest of the siblings, who is also the one who tells us all this funny and fascinating story.

Why the name?

Every 31st December a Ball takes place in a rather intimate setting of the Franco-Mauritians, within "Club du dodo" (the dodo being the symbol of the island). This club, founded in 1928, is one of the most exclusive in the world. Young people meet here and forge bonds that often lead to marriage. At the centre of this ball of Curepipe, the young women compete in elegance to turn the heads of the young men.

An absolute must-read!

This incredible novel brings a change of scenery, an exceptional style that evolves from supreme elegance to pure joy, superb descriptions that awaken the senses, the exploration of Mauritian traditions and so much more... This novel is an invitation to travel to somewhere special, an invitation that no one should decline!