Edith de La Héronnière’s *Joë Bousquet* offers a concise portrait of the French poet and essayist whose life was marked by chronic illness and a relentless creative drive. Drawing on letters, memoirs, and contemporary accounts, the author traces Bousquet’s early years in Montpellier, his wartime experiences, and the formation of his literary circle in Paris. The narrative highlights his relationships with figures such as Paul Valéry and Maurice Blanchot, while examining how his physical suffering shaped a distinctive poetic voice. Though compact, the work balances scholarly insight with accessible storytelling, making it suitable for readers interested in 20th‑century French literature and the personal dimensions of artistic perseverance.