Pauline Peyrade has won the 52nd Prix du Livre Inter [1] for her novel “Les Habitantes” [1].
The award is significant because it is decided by a jury of ordinary readers rather than professional critics, reflecting a democratic approach to literary merit in France.
The announcement took place on Monday, June 1, 2026 [1]. The selection process involved a jury consisting of 24 readers [1], who were tasked with evaluating the year's literary contributions. This group operated under the presidency of Laurent Mauvignier [1].
Reaching a final decision required extensive discussion among the participants. The jury deliberated for more than five hours [1] before selecting Peyrade's work as the winner of the 2026 edition [1]. The prize is organized by France Inter [2], the national public radio station.
“Les Habitantes” emerged as the top choice in a process designed to highlight the connection between authors and the general reading public. The 52nd iteration of the prize continues the tradition of elevating works that resonate with a broad audience beyond the traditional academic, or critical circles of the French publishing industry [1].
The ceremony marks another milestone for Peyrade, whose work has now been recognized by one of the most reader-centric awards in the country [2].
“Pauline Peyrade has won the 52nd Prix du Livre Inter for her novel “Les Habitantes”.”
The Prix du Livre Inter serves as a barometer for popular literary taste in France. By utilizing a jury of 24 non-professional readers, the award bypasses the traditional gatekeeping of the Parisian literary establishment, suggesting that “Les Habitantes” possesses a narrative appeal that transcends critical theory to reach a wider demographic.
