Thélyson Orélien disrupts the French literary season

Thélyson Orélien, a 38-year-old Haitian author, has become a literary phenomenon in France with his debut novel "C'était ça ou mourir". The book, released on August 20 by Grasset, sold nearly 16,000 copies in just fifteen days and is praised both by critics and readers.

"This success is surprising," said Thélyson Orélien when interviewed by AFP during a promotion event. "I am surprised but very happy."

The novel tells the story of Jonas Dorléon, a Haitian teacher forced into exile after his neighborhood was destroyed by gangs. It describes his decision: "I decided to flee. Not to become rich, nor to live better. Just to live. Period."

Philippe Jaenada, a journalist at Grasset, highlighted the exceptional success of the novel from its early weeks.

"The book took off very strongly," he said. "It's rare for an unknown first-time novelist to establish themselves so quickly."

France Info also praised Orélien's unique style, which "cracks like a whip," and included him among serious contenders for major literary prizes.

The novel has already won several awards and is part of the initial selections for the Goncourt and Renaudot prizes. It will be published in over 20 countries, including the United States and South Korea.

Orélien wrote the book with "guts" after speaking to many Haitians who had experienced exile. The book is not only about immigration but also speaks of the dignity of a man stripped of everything who never loses hope.

Despite his success, Orélien remains modest and hopes that his popularity will help better understand the realities faced by those forced to leave. He currently refuses to return to Haiti, where he believes the situation continues to deteriorate.

Orélien is multiplying interviews and debates about his book across France before heading to Canada to write a new novel and poems.