Dominique de Saint Mars: 'Child prevention relies on naming things'

Dominique de Saint Mars, the creator of the beloved "Max et Lili" series, opens her Parisian home, a space filled with color and warmth, reflecting a life dedicated to understanding childhood.

For over three decades, de Saint Mars, a sociologist by training, has been a guiding voice for young readers, tackling sensitive subjects like jealousy, grief, and more recently, the realities of "rainbow families." Her books, published in Switzerland, act as quiet guides for families, fostering essential conversations between children and their parents, teachers, and peers.

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I think we hug too much!

With 138 illustrated albums to her name, de Saint Mars sees her work as deeply intertwined with her own life. She approaches each child with a maternal instinct, whether they are her own two children or the characters she has brought to life. Her dedication to demystifying complex emotions for children remains as vibrant as ever, promising more stories to come.

She believes that preventing distress in children hinges on their ability to articulate their feelings. "For a child, prevention comes through the ability to name things," she states, emphasizing the power of language in processing difficult experiences. Her continued passion suggests that the "Max et Lili" series will continue to illuminate the path for many more children.

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For a child, prevention comes through the ability to name things.