Jacqueline Harpman’s Novel Surges in Popularity Three Decades Later
Jacqueline Harpman’s novel, “I Who Have Never Known Men,” has made a remarkable comeback, captivating readers and social media audiences alike. Originally published in French as “Moi qui n’ai pas connu les hommes” in 1995, the book went out of print before being revived through a revised translation by literary translator Ros Schwartz. The updated edition was released in 2019 and subsequently reissued in the United States in 2022, where it quickly gained traction.
The novel, which explores themes of autonomy and human experience, follows an unnamed young girl and 39 other women trapped in an underground bunker, overseen by silent, whip-wielding men. With no memories of their past lives, the women must navigate a desolate world after their escape, raising questions about societal structures and personal freedom. In its 30th anniversary year, the book sold over 275,000 copies worldwide in 2025, marking a significant resurgence in popularity.
Social Media Buzz and Literary Comparisons
The book has become a sensation on platforms like BookTok, where it has been compared to Margaret Atwood’s iconic work, “The Handmaid’s Tale.” Many social media users label it as “The Handmaid’s Tale for Gen-Z,” highlighting its relevance to contemporary issues. This comparison has led to discussions around feminism and the broader human experience.
While some readers initially approach the novel expecting a feminist narrative, they often find that its core message transcends gender. Morgan Brimecombe, a 19-year-old student at Northeastern University, noted, “I thought it was going to be more of a feminist book… [But] the most prominent [theme] was more the human experience.”
Academic Insights and Current Relevance
Academics have also taken notice of the novel’s relevance. Annabel Kim, a professor at Harvard University specializing in French feminist literature, discovered the book through social media. She pointed out that while Atwood’s work presents a clear critique of patriarchy, Harpman’s narrative invites readers to ponder broader questions about humanity. Kim emphasized that the book’s themes resonate strongly with current global concerns, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It came out right before COVID hit… there was a sense that your freedom had been taken away,” Kim explained. This shared experience of isolation has contributed to the book’s appeal, as it encourages readers to reflect on their own struggles with autonomy and community.
Geoff Raywood, a manager at Trident Booksellers & Cafe in Boston, observed a surge in demand for the book from 2020 onwards, peaking in 2023. He attributed its popularity to its exploration of community-building during times of isolation, stating, “It’s giving people an avenue to explore some of these themes as they’re dealing with them in real time.”
Despite its backdrop of confinement and despair, the novel offers a glimmer of hope. Kim describes the narrator’s determination to carve out a sense of humanity as a message of agency and freedom. She stated, “The narrator’s journey conveys that we always have some degree of agency, autonomy, or to put it another way, freedom.”
As “I Who Have Never Known Men” continues to resonate with readers around the world, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of literature to reflect and challenge societal norms. The novel’s resurgence illustrates the complex relationship between art and contemporary issues, inviting both critical and personal reflection.
Isabella Bernstein can be reached at [email protected].
