Michel Jean’s novel about life on Montreal streets is translated into English

Michel Jean’s latest novel traces Elie Mestenapeo’s life on Montreal’s streets. Discover a moving story of hardship, kindness, and hope in translation.

Michel Jean’s latest novel, translated into English by Susan Ouriou, follows Elie Mestenapeo, a young Innu man who ends up living on the streets of Montreal after being released from prison on Quebec’s North Shore. In an interview about the book, Jean discussed how he created the central character and the people around him to reflect the harsh realities of street life. He also said he wanted to show that even in difficult circumstances, there can still be moments of kindness and hope.