Le Mauvais Génie

"Le Mauvais Génie" is a novella written by the French author Comtesse de Ségur, whose real name was Sophie Rostopchine. This novella, published in 1864, is part of her series of children's books that were popular during the 19th century. The story centers around the character of Charles, a young boy who displays rebellious and mischievous behavior. His actions cause concern and distress to his family, and they refer to him as the "Mauvais Génie, " which translates to "The Evil Genius".
Charles' family attempts various strategies to correct his behavior, but the novella explores whether his actions are truly malevolent or if he is merely misunderstood. Comtesse de Ségur's novels are known for their emphasis on moral and educational themes, making them suitable for young readers. They often depict the process of growing up and the importance of strong moral values.