Returning to Reims

Didier Eribonis Professor of Sociology at the University of Amiens. His previous books include the biographyMichael Foucault, Insult and the Making of the Gay Self,and numerous other books of critical theory. 'Returning to Reims, his acclaimed memoir of going back to his roots, is a bestseller in Europe.

Translated byMichael Lucey.

A brilliant little book...a touching memoir of sexual awakening, and a gallery of philosophical ideas and characters
A deeply intelligent and searching book, one that makes you re-consider the narrative of your own life and reframe the story you tell yourself... Didier Eribon understands how deep the roots of inequality go
Returning to Reimsplayed a capital role in my life... I was overwhelmed by this book. I felt I was reading the story of my life.
This is a self-excoriating memoir... [Eribon] writes as someone who has scrubbed hard at the markings of destiny
A stunning book -- vital and important
Hypnotic ... a gripping read
Eribon's memoir is fascinating: full of fretful honesty, battling with shame around his background and shame at being ashamed
Eribon offers up a magnificent example of an enlightened life liberated by theory, written in a style that deftly moves between the intimate, the social and the political
A powerful book and one that I enjoyed immensely
This is a beautiful book about suppression, losing touch with your roots, and regaining balance
An honest and moving personal narrative that is skilfully threaded through sociological and political analysis. I was captivated from beginning to end
This intensely personal account of Didier Eribon's family is a fascinating and compelling read...The book is beautifully written (and as beautifully translated). It is at once pleasureable and edifying to read
Retour à Reims could be a novel. It has all the allure and attraction of one