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50 unheard or forgotten Norman tales coming to your bookshelf this October
by
16 October 2026
Gaulthier Lenôtre unveils his second book this October, a perfect opportunity to learn more about Normandy's forgotten and overlooked tales and people.
The book launch was held in Caen, at the Abbaye aux Dames on Friday, 9th October 2026 | © Sebastien Pollock // World Radio Normandy Caen
Preserving history is an important part of our heritage and that's exactly what Gaulthier aims to do by sharing his more than two years of intensive research on the most overlooked parts of the region. With Althéa Marchand-Robart, who provided the book's illustrations, he guides you through time with tales you may never have heard before: from 911 to the present day, it’s 272 pages of incredible stories and characters.
“What I hope to do is show that Normandy has other figures besides William the Conqueror."
"Normans have played a key role in writing the history of both France and Europe," says Gaulthier, referencing the region’s ties with England. "When we say we're Norman, it speaks to people in Normandy but also in the UK. 2027’s European Year of the Normans is a great opportunity to celebrate this heritage and those shared stories."
Among these tales is that of Sir Marc Isambard Brunel, the man behind the Thames Tunnel, a Norman born in Hacqueville who attended university in Caen.
"I have made the choice to donate parts of my royalties and help three Norman towns."
In collaboration with the Fondation du patrimoine Normandie (Normandy Heritage Foundation) and the support of Normandie Granite, Gaulthier is determined to help save small heritage sites.
He selected sites in three towns: Bréhal, Almenêches and Bolbec. All have one thing in common: they are mentioned in the book and all played a role in the overlooked parts of Normandy's History.
"50 histoires de Normands méconnus ou oubliés" was released on Tuesday, 6th October 2026. Published by Éditions du Panthéon, it is available in libraries across France.
