Antoine de Saint-Exupéry ​

Antoine Marie Jean-Baptiste Roger, comte de Saint-Exupéry was a French writer, poet, aristocrat, journalist and pioneering aviator. He became a laureate of several of France's highest literary awards and also won the U.S. National Book Award. He is best remembered for his novella "The Little Prince" and for his lyrical aviation writings, including "Night Flight" and "Wind, Sand and Stars".

Quick Facts ​

• Wrote "The Little Prince," which is one of the most-translated and best-selling books in the world.
• This novella has been translated into more than 300 languages and dialects.
• Also a pioneering aviator.
• Was a laureate of France's highest literary awards as well as several United States awards.
• Disappeared during a flight over the Mediterranean Sea in 1944, while serving with the French Air Force during World War II.

Background ​

Saint-Exupéry was born in 1900 in Lyon, France, to an aristocratic family. He was the third of five children. He failed his final exams at a preparatory naval academy, thwarting his dream to follow his father's footsteps and join the French Navy. Instead, he began to study architecture, but left school to become a pioneering aviator. He worked at first as a mail pilot, later flying for the French Air Force. His passion for aviation inspired many of his literary works, including Night Flight and Wind, Sand and Stars. However, he is possibly best known for his novella The Little Prince, which has been translated into more than 250 languages and dialects.

During World War II, he flew reconnaissance missions for the Free French Air Force. In 1944, aged 44, he disappeared over the Mediterranean on a mission and is believed to have died at that time. His books continue to be highly regarded and widely read.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Saint-Exupéry was known for writing elegant, poetic prose, often deeply philosophical in nature. His works often reflect his experiences as a pioneering aviator, and his passion for flying and adventure. His most famous work, "The Little Prince", uses a simple, childlike storytelling style to explore themes of loneliness, friendship, love, and loss. His significant contributions to French literature include touching upon themes of humanity and moral values.

Notable Works ​

• Night Flight (1931)
• Wind, Sand and Stars (1939)
• Airman's Odyssey (1942)
• The Little Prince (1943)