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Now Available Worldwide
FROM BROKEN TO WHOLE
English translation of Les Autruches
I wrote this book between 2015 and 2016, in a state of urgency, when I was literally standing on the edge of life and death. It was published in France in 2018 under the title Les Autruches by Éditions L’Harmattan. At that time, writing was my only way forward, my only way to survive. I had no choice but to put words to my pain, to give form to what I was experiencing, in the hope that it would allow me to move through it.
Now available worldwide in bookstores, libraries, and online platforms, including Amazon.
The first part of this book is my story, though certain characters, places, and contexts have been altered for confidentiality. The last part, I believed, was fiction. But what is truly extraordinary is that six or seven years later, that imagined life—the one I had written for Camille—became reality. Almost exactly as I had described it. Moments I had thought were pure inventions played out in real life, down to the smallest details: the names, the paintings, the titles, the colors of a dress, the precise unfolding of scenes. It was as if, without knowing it, I had written my own future.
And now, this book embarks on a new journey, finding its way to readers across the ocean. Seeing it published today in the
United States fills me with immense joy and a deep sense of purpose. I know this book has already touched and helped many people. Over the years, I have received countless letters and messages from readers telling me how Les Autruches transformed their lives or gave them the strength to move forward when they felt lost. I have also heard from doctors, psychotherapists, and psychologists who have recommended it to their patients.
This book has a life of its own. It follows its own path. And I am simply here to accompany it as it continues to reach those who need it most.
If you have this book in your hands, it’s no coincidence. May this story help you, guide you, inspire you. May these words give you the power and the courage to believe that, whatever happens, everything is possible.
Thank you.
Marie-Amélie Chéreau, April 2025
Novels
Writing is another form of expression where I explore the same themes that inspire my paintings: the beauty of the ordinary, the fragility of time, and the depth of human experience. Through my novels, I invite you into intimate narratives where words become brushstrokes, and stories unfold with the same sensitivity and nuance as my art.
These books are more than stories — they are windows into the landscapes of emotion and imagination, crafted to resonate and linger long after the final page is turned.
The Author
Marie-Amélie Chéreau is the author of "Les Autruches" (2018, L'Harmattan) and "Le Champ des Possibles" (2021, Les Éditions Persée)—two critically acclaimed novels praised for their emotional depth and spiritual insight.
Seven years after its initial release in France, Les Autruches has now been published in English for the U.S. market under the title From Broken to Whole: The Courage to Heal and Reclaim Your Dream Life.
Her books offer a key to understanding her paintings, opening the door to the emotional and symbolic world that lies beneath each canvas, a world shaped by healing, faith, resilience, and silent transformation.
Testimonials – From Broken to Whole
“Heart-Wrenching Book! A poignant, demanding story—a mix of deep pain and hope for life. The writing is light yet impactful, keeping the suspense alive. Despite the heavy themes, it never falls into pathos.”
— Eric C. Munich, Germany
“Bought-Read-Devoured!!! The fascinating and heart-wrenching story of a radical career change, triggered by burnout that brings to light a long-buried crime. So much suffering, disappointment, and self-destruction leading to justice finally prevailing. It’s a very well-written book—simple yet precise—and at no point does it slip into melodrama. You just can’t put it down!”
— Bea B, Miami, USA
“A Powerful Book. A deeply touching novel due to its honesty and sensitivity. Marie-Amélie Chéreau describes her traumas without holding back, as well as the different paths that led her to healing, self-acceptance, and rediscovering a love for life. You’ll think about it long after closing the book. Without feeling like a voyeur, you’ll come away more tolerant, with a deeper understanding of the complex mechanisms that link the body and mind, and the techniques available to reconnect them. An essential book.”
— Margot R. Paris, France
“I don’t even know how to thank you for listening and for the precision of your words yesterday— they did me so much good. I felt so relieved afterward. The weight in my stomach felt lighter, and it’s thanks to you! I read a few pages of your book last night, and wow... it overflows with sincerity and deeply touching words. THANK YOU!”
— Goran P., Paris, France
