Dire non – French Children’s Book | Ages 2–7 (PS–CE1)

Saying no can feel like stepping into new territory—like growing up and finding your voice. Dire non gently shows how learning to say no is a part of becoming stronger, freer and more understood. 

Story highlights

• A warm, thoughtful picture-book by Catherine Dolto & Colline Faure‑Poirée, illustrated by Robin, part of the Mine de rien / Giboulées collection from Gallimard Jeunesse. 

• Clear, accessible text and soothing illustrations explore the moment when a child says “non” – what it means, how it feels, and why it matters.

• A soft-cover (or cartonné) format (28 pages, 175 × 207 mm) designed for young listeners and early readers.

• Ideal for families and educators to open conversations about boundaries, feelings and growing up.

Perfect for

• Children ages 2–7 who are starting to explore “yes” and “no,” boundaries and emotions.

• Parents or bilingual households looking for a gentle French-language read to support social-emotional growth.

• Preschool-aged story-times, early elementary reading circles, and nurseries introducing respect and consent in a simple way.

• Gift-givers seeking a meaningful, beautifully illustrated French book that supports big ideas in a small book.

Product details

• Title: Dire non

• Authors: Catherine Dolto; Colline Faure-Poirée

• Illustrator: Robin

• Publisher: Gallimard Jeunesse – Collection Mine de rien / Giboulées

• Format: 28 pages, 175 × 207 mm, board/cartonné style (depending edition) 

• Publication date: 20 August 2020

• ISBN: 978-2-07-514788-0 

• Language: French

Educational value

• Supports social-emotional learning: language around saying no, expressing feelings and respect is introduced simply and warmly.

• Builds early French vocabulary tied to emotions, autonomy and relationships—ideal for young bilingual or French-immersion learners.

• Encourages discussion and reflection: parents/educators can pause to ask “How do you feel when you say no?” or “What happens when we respect someone’s no?”

• Helps children begin to understand personal boundaries and the value of listening to themselves and others—an important foundation for gentle early childhood education.