Mona's Eyes

“Mona's Eyes” by Toma Schlesser is a unique book, a “coming-of-age novel” and at the same time an exciting journey into the world of art. Ten-year-old Mona unexpectedly loses her sight.
Her sudden blindness soon passes, but the risk of relapses... remains. Gradually, the ophthalmologist who treats the girl comes to believe that the cause of such blindness episodes may be the deep stress Mona has experienced. However, instead of the psychiatrist visits prescribed by the doctor, her grandfather, a former brilliant photojournalist, takes Mona to Parisian museums once a week, showing her masterpieces of painting and sculpture, helping her feel their beauty and immerse in the wonder of art. Together with Mona and her irresistible grandfather, the reader walks through museum halls, learning about the history of the great masters' creativity from the Renaissance to the present day. At the same time, Mona leads a tense everyday life with complex problems, sometimes far from childish. Week by week, thanks to the horizons that have opened to her, Mona matures and begins not only to understand art but also to build her own relationship with the world.
The author of the book, art historian Toma Schlesser, was awarded the title of “Author of the Year” at the “Book Publishing Trophies – 2025” awards. Translation rights have been purchased by 37 countries.




1. A French bestseller that has captivated readers around the world. Immediately after its release, the novel “Mona's Eyes” became a true literary phenomenon. Rights for the book's translation have been bought by 37 countries, and the writer Toma Schlesser was awarded the title of “Author of the Year” at the “Book Publishing Trophies – 2025”.
2. “Mona's Eyes” is a touching “coming-of-age novel” telling the story of ten-year-old Mona, who could go blind due to a rare disease. Concerned grandfather wants to show her as many beautiful things as possible, so every week they visit one of the Parisian museums and admire the famous works of art.
3. The author of the book is a well-known art historian and lecturer. “Mona's Eyes” is not only an engaging novel but also a unique guide to world culture from the Renaissance to the present day.