The Last Days of New Paris (2016) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

Sexual content is limited to the surrealist imagery of the manifestations, or 'manifs,' which frequently feature eroticized and fragmented human bodies. In Chapter 4, Thibaut encounters creatures derived from Hans Bellmer's dolls, which present distorted and sexualized female anatomy. While there are no scenes of sexual intercourse between characters, the prose describes the nudity and phallic nature of certain living artworks with clinical, artistic detachment. The presence of 'Exquisite Corpses' involves the…

Violence is frequent, highly stylized, and often grotesque, reflecting the chaotic nature of both war and surrealist art. In the 1950 timeline, Thibaut and Sam navigate a Paris where Nazi-summoned demons and living art engage in brutal street combat, resulting in eviscerations and bodily distortions. A pivotal scene in Chapter 7 depicts a dark occult ritual where the Nazis perform a human sacrifice to summon a demonic entity. Characters are frequently under fire from German soldiers, and the 'S-Blast' itself is…

The language is moderate in frequency but includes several instances of profanity in both English and French. Words like 'shit' and 'fuck' appear during high-tension combat sequences or moments of character frustration, particularly from Thibaut. The prose is dense and intellectual, utilizing a highly sophisticated vocabulary that may be more challenging than the occasional curse word. Because the setting is occupied Paris, some derogatory terms or harsh military commands are used by the German forces. However…

Substance use is minor and historically appropriate for the settings of 1941 and 1950 Paris. In the flashback sequences at the Villa Air-Bel, characters like Jack Parsons and various surrealist artists are seen smoking cigarettes and drinking wine or absinthe. These moments reflect the bohemian lifestyle of the artists rather than depicting substance abuse or addiction as a central theme. Thibaut and other resistance members may occasionally share a drink to steady their nerves between skirmishes with demons…

The central themes revolve around the power of art as a weapon of resistance against fascist ideology. The book explores the literalization of the Surrealist movement, examining how images can confront and dismantle the rigid control of the Nazi occupation. Collaboration and betrayal are key elements, especially regarding Sam's true motivations and the actions of the 'Main à plume' resistance group. The narrative is heavily layered with art history, utilizing real-world figures like André Breton and the occultist…