The map and the area (large print)

If Jed Martin, the main character in this novel, were to retell its story, he might start with a combi boiler that broke down on a cold December day. Or with his father, a well-known, committed architect, with whom he had enjoyed many lonely Christmas dinners. He would certainly mention Olga, a beautiful Russian woman whom he met early in his career when he first exhibited his photographic work based on Michelin maps. That was before he achieved worldwide success with his 'subjects' series, in which he portrayed personalities from all walks of life (including the writer Michel Houellebecq) in the exercise of their profession. He would also have to tell how he helped Inspector Jasselin solve a gruesome murder case, the horrific details of which would long remain in the memory of the police force. Towards the end of his life he would achieve a certain serenity and speak only in whispers.