Sidonie Gabrielle Colette

Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette (1873–1954) was a French writer, journalist, and variety performer. She grew up in Burgundy and moved to Paris as a young woman. She first became known for the Claudine novels; her other works include Chéri, Mitsou, La Chatte, and Gigi. Her extensive body of work comprises novels, short stories, essays, memoirs, and letters. Colette was a member and, for a time, president of the Académie Goncourt. She was made a Chevalier of the French Legion of Honour in 1920 and a Grand Officer in 1953. After her death, she became the first woman in France to receive a state funeral.