Remembering Antonine Maillet: Acadian Novelist and Playwright

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Antonine Maillet, a beloved novelist, playwright, and proud Acadian, who died at the age of 95 at her home in Montreal. Her publisher, Pierre Filion of Quebec publishing house Lemeac, shared the news on social media on Monday, revealing that Maillet passed away overnight.

Born in Bouctouche, New Brunswick on May 10, 1929, Maillet made history as the first Canadian writer to be awarded the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 1979 for her novel Pélagie-la-Charrette. She went on to earn a PhD in literature from Université Laval in Quebec City in 1970.

Throughout her prolific career, Maillet’s work was deeply rooted in the history, language, folklore, and traditions of the Acadian people. With over 20 novels and 12 plays to her name, she captured the essence of Acadian culture and heritage in her storytelling.

Maillet’s contributions to literature and the arts were recognized with numerous accolades and honors. She was appointed as a companion of the Order of Canada, a member of the Order of New Brunswick, and a commander of the Order of the Legion of Honour of France, among other prestigious titles.