Mixed Messages

In his most recent collection of cartoons, Sempé turns his attention to the trappings of modern life, from mobile phones to designer water. He also takes a fresh look at some of his favourite topics and archetypes, such as struggling artists, aloof psychiatrists and unhappy couples. Whether he’s poking fun at the urbane patrons of fashionable restaurants or the inhabitants of sleepy hamlets, Sempé treats all his subjects with equal amounts of insight and affection. These inimitable drawings and watercolours, accompanied by perfectly judged deadpan captions, are fresh, engaging and funny, and will appeal to cartoon connoisseurs and Francophiles as well as the general public .