Mélilot de Repentigny wins the 2024 Jovette-Bernier prize

Mélilot de Repentigny wins the 2024 Jovette-Bernier prize at the Rimouski Book Fair for his first novel “Naming the Living”.

Originally from Montreal, Mélilot de Repentigny has lived in Rimouski since 2018.

Published by the Leméac publishing house, “Naming the Living” tells the story of Myrique, plagued by suicidal thoughts and recurring unease.

After a few stays in psychiatry. Myrique comes to pay attention to other patients, to listen to their unique experiences, then to draw portraits of them that are as lucid as they are caring.

Inclusive writing

This is the first story written in inclusive writing to be rewarded by the Rimouski Book Fair.

The Jovette-Bernier literary prize is awarded to an author from Bas-Saint-Laurent whose literary talent is expressed in a remarkable and inspiring work.

It also included Catherine Lemieux for “Lourdes” and Emmanuel Poinot for “La nuit funambule” as finalists.

Created in 1981, the Jovette-Bernier literary prize is accompanied by a $1,000 scholarship.

Last year, Stéphanie Pelletier, for her collection of texts “What burns well” published by Planète Rebel, won top honors.