Giono, Jean (1895-1970)

French novelist. His books are chiefly set in Provence. Que ma Joie demeure/Joy of Man's Desiring 1935 is an attack on life in towns and a plea for a return to country life.

In 1956 he published a defence of Gaston Dominici, who allegedly murdered an English family on holiday, maintaining that the old farmer exemplified the misunderstandings between town and country people.

Giono's many novels include a trilogy entitled Pan 1928-30; Le Grand troupeau 1931, about his war experiences; Le Chant du monde 1934, Le Hussard sur le toit 1951, and Le Bonheur fou 1957. Among his numerous other works are the poems Accompagnés de la flute 1924, plays, and volumes of short stories.