Jean Bruce ​

Jean Alexandre Bruce, better known as Jean Bruce, was a French writer who is primarily known for his series of spy novels featuring the character OSS 117. Bruce's OSS 117 series is a French cultural phenomenon and has been adapted into multiple films and comic books.

Quick Facts ​

• Created the character Hubert Bonisseur de La Bath, alias "OSS 117", who has been played in the movies by actors such as Jean Dujardin.
• Wrote over 200 novels
• Sold over 100 million copies
• Became one of the best known writers of espionage thrillers of France.
• His books have been adapted into movies numerous times.

Background ​

Bruce was born in 1921 in Etretat, France, and had a passion for literature from an early age. After studying commerce, he worked in various trades before he began writing adventure novels under a pseudonym. He served in the French army during World War II, where his experiences served as inspiration for many of his later works. After the war, he became a full-time writer and published his first novel, OSS 117, which went on to become a popular series and was adapted into several films. He continued to write and publish prolifically throughout his career, and his books have been translated into numerous languages. He died in 1963, leaving behind a rich legacy of thrilling espionage novels.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Bruce's writing is characterized by suspenseful and fast-moving plots, careful documentation, and detailed descriptions. His novels revolve around espionage, filled with intrigue and meticulous research. The OSS 117 series, his most famous work, has had a significant impact on the spy genre, combining elements of humor and cynicism with traditional espionage themes. His works are credited with offering a new perspective on the genre.

Notable Works ​

• OSS 117 series (1949-1985)
• The Big Scare (1964)
• The President Has Been Kidnapped (1968)
• The Venetian Command (1970)
• The Last Test (1973)