In times like these, we need someone to give us a dose of happiness, 150 pages worth, that keeps us happy all day. Cheese by Willem Elsschot and its protagonist Frans Laarmans. The novel, translated from Dutch, is this year's bestseller. Cheese Author: Willem Elsschot Publication Date: 2011 Book Classification: Literature and Poetry Publisher: Al-Rafidain Printing, Publishing and Distribution Number of Pages: 148 Format: Paperback Used One of the titles that might drive a reader to make judgments before opening the first page is the novel "Cheese" by the Belgian writer Willem Elsschot. A simple title, and perhaps not intriguing at first glance, but it hides behind it one of the most satirical and intelligent novels in its portrayal of the human psyche. The novel is not about cheese as much as it is about humans; about the ambition that drives its owner to undertake experiences beyond his expertise, about the fear of failure, and the desire to appear successful even if reality says otherwise. Elsschot managed to create from an ordinary daily idea a story that carries many psychological and social implications, with a graceful language and a calm sarcasm that does not rely on exaggeration, but on irony. I admired the economy of narration, and the author's avoidance of طول, and I also admired his ability to draw a character that seems familiar, so much so that the reader feels they know her, or perhaps see something of themselves or those around them in her. Although the novel does not rely on fast-paced events or complex plots, it relies more on the idea than on the event, and therefore may not be suitable for those looking for suspense as much as it is suitable for those who enjoy literature that poses questions about humans and their nature. For me, "Cheese" was a beautiful reminder not to judge books by their covers, nor their value by their fame. Some novels do not shout to attract attention, but they whisper ideas that remain in memory for a long time.