A Travelogue from Thiérache

By Bernard Zongo

This book is an account of the discovery of a rural world known as the 'blind spot of France': the Thi rache. This region, which defies definition due to its natural and human riches, as well as its geography, appears at first glance to be elusive. Yet encounters with the people of Sorbais, Etr aupont, Hirson and elsewhere reveal a community with a sensitive heart - at times proud of its landscapes and culture, and at other times ashamed of how it is perceived and of its relationship with outsiders. And yet, historically, the Thi rache has been a welcoming land for migrants from Belgium, England, Germany and, above all, Holland. It is also, by virtue of its geography, an open region, bordering Picardy, Nord-Pas-de-Calais and Belgium. If there is one place that bears witness both to the history of France and to the issues surrounding otherness, it is undoubtedly the Thi rache. It is perhaps the last bastion of the Picard language, which must absolutely be preserved. And the people of this region are devoting all their efforts to this cause. We owe them our thanks.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 6630606914
• ISBN13: 9786630606911
• Release Date: November 2026
• Publisher: Our Knowledge Publishing
• Length: 56 Pages
• Weight: 0.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.1" x 6.0"