Celebrated Swiss author Joël Dicker has made waves once again with his new children's book, La très catastrophique visite du zoo, released on March 4, 2025, by Rosie & Wolfe. Known for his captivating thrillers, Dicker has taken on the challenge of writing for younger audiences—a bold transition said to engage generations from ages 7 to 120.
This latest offering marks Dicker's return to bookstores, following closely on the heels of his previous work, Un animal sauvage. Though he has dominated best-seller lists, he shifts focus with this narrative, which is as much about adventure and humor as it is about important societal issues.
At the heart of the story is Joséphine, who also struggles with the challenges of being neuroatypical. During what was intended to be a fun school field trip to the zoo, calamity strikes, plunging the group of children—along with their teacher, Mademoiselle Jennings—into unexpected chaos. This prompts Joséphine to recount not only the zoo visit but also the events leading up to it, including the mysterious flood at their school and other humorous escapades.
What sets La très catastrophique visite du zoo apart from typical children’s literature is its blend of humor and poignant social commentary. Dicker has crafted irresistible narration from the perspective of Joséphine, whose sharp tongue and mischievous endeavors bring levity to the story. She and her motley crew of classmates confront authority figures—be it bumbling policemen or grandmothers enamored with crime series—with playful defiance.
Importantly, Dicker reflects on broader themes of acceptance, as the children navigate the challenges posed by their unique educational needs. The portrayal of how they are treated by peers and school officials invites readers to ponder the societal perspectives on disability and acceptance. "La Très Catastrophique Visite du zoo est aussi un livre profond, qui met en avant de nombreux sujets de société," stated Dicker, underscoring the relevance of these narratives today.
Not only does Dicker's story captivate with humor, but it also encourages discussion around significant topics such as political awareness and the value of democratic engagement. The peculiar events within the book—like parent-teacher meetings and chaotic road safety lectures—serve as the perfect backdrop for young readers to engage with these larger themes.
Reflecting on the societal shift toward screens, Dicker observed, "Il souligne l’importance de lever les yeux des écrans pour les replonger dans les livres, outils de partage et d’échange." Through this novel, he aims to highlight the experience of reading as not just entertainment but as fundamental to social connection and learning.
With only 256 pages, La Très Catastrophique Visite du zoo is accessible and easily digestible, making it ideal for reading at home or sharing aloud with family. Dicker’s hope is for the book to serve as a springboard for curiosity, encouraging both children and adults to explore literature together.
By skillfully merging the whimsical and the serious, Joël Dicker has created what promises to be a beloved literary addition, capable of bridging generational gaps. With sales of 20 million copies of his works since 2012, Dicker's influence and ability to connect with readers continue to resonate, reaffirming the significance of storytelling.
On its release, La Très Catastrophique Visite du zoo is not just for children; it serves as both entertainment and educational tool. Dicker’s invitation to read is clear: stories matter, reflecting life’s nuances and fostering dialogues about our shared experiences.