First published in 1900, Gabrielle Réval's Les Sèvriennes pulls back the curtain on a pivotal moment in French history. It’s a semi-autobiographical look at the first generations of women who attended a teachers' college, offering an education previously reserved for men.

The Story

The book follows a group of students—the 'Sèvriennes'—through their years at the École normale supérieure de jeunes filles in Sèvres. There's no single protagonist; instead, we get a mosaic of their collective experience. We see them cram for exams, form intense bonds in their dormitories, chafe against strict supervision, and dream about the lives they'll lead after graduation. The plot is driven by the small, daily triumphs and struggles of academic life and the looming question of what it means to be a trailblazer. Will they live up to the institution's lofty goals? Can they balance their intellectual ambitions with the societal roles still expected of them?

Why You Should Read It

What makes this book special is its warmth and authenticity. Réval was there, and it shows. She captures the electric feeling of young women discovering their own minds in a supportive environment. The friendships feel real—full of inside jokes, petty squabbles, and unwavering loyalty. It’s also surprisingly relatable. Anyone who’s ever survived a rigorous school program or felt the pressure of being 'the first' or 'the only' in a space will recognize these emotions. The book quietly celebrates intellectual curiosity and the solidarity among women, making their small victories feel huge.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for readers who enjoy character-driven stories and hidden slices of social history. If you liked the communal spirit of Little Women but wished it was set in a French academy, you’ll find a kindred spirit here. It’s for anyone curious about the lived experience of the women’s education movement, beyond the dry dates and facts. While it’s a specific historical setting, the core themes of friendship, ambition, and finding your place in the world are timeless. A quiet, thoughtful, and ultimately uplifting read.