The Alliance Française of Calgary and l'Institut Français du Canada are thrilled to welcome Fabien Toulmé, a celebrated graphic novelist known for his thought-provoking works that explore human stories with empathy and depth. Join us on Friday, April 25th, at 6:15 pm in the Library of the Alliance Française of Calgary for an engaging discussion in French. This event offers you the unique opportunity to interact with Fabien Toulmé and dive into his creative process and artistic journey.

Fabien Toulmé is celebrated for his poignant and deeply personal graphic novels that bring to life stories of identity, relationships, and social challenges. Among his most notable works are:

• L’Odyssée d’Hakim: A trilogy narrating the real-life journey of a Syrian refugee, blending humanity, courage, and resilience.
• Ce n’est pas toi que j’attendais: A moving autobiographical story about his experience as a father, grappling with the unexpected diagnosis of his daughter’s Down syndrome.
• En lutte from the series Les Reflets du Monde: A touching tale that explores social and individual struggles through rich, complex characters.

The discussion will be moderated by Cyrielle Faivre, Assistant Professor of French at the University of Calgary. Since 2022, she has shared her expertise in French literature, focusing on the representation of convicts and penal colonies in 19th- and 20th-century French narratives, as well as the portrayal of women in Francophone popular culture.

« J'aime beaucoup la bande dessinée de reportage, travailler sur le réel et le vécu des gens » - Fabien Toulmé, 2021

Fabien Toulmé discovered his passion for storytelling and illustration in his early years. After training as an engineer, he turned his talents to the world of comics, creating narratives that resonate universally. His ability to weave personal and global themes into accessible graphic novels has made him one of the most prominent voices in contemporary French literature. Toulmé’s works have been translated into multiple languages, reaching readers worldwide.

Fabien’s storytelling often combines autobiographical, testimonial, and fictional elements, with a preference for alternating between genres to keep his creativity alive. He excels at exploring complex human stories, whether they are emotional, humorous, or deeply reflective. Works like L’Odyssée d’Hakim highlight his skill in addressing real-world issues, such as the challenges faced by refugees, with empathy and authenticity.

He continues to push boundaries with his latest projects, reflecting on the human condition with sensitivity and depth. His visit to Calgary is part of his 2025 North American tour, giving audiences a rare chance to engage with his artistry.