The Ink-Stain (Tache d'encre) — Volume 1

"The Ink-Stain (Tache d'encre) — Volume 1" by René Bazin is a story set in 19th-century France, focusing on a young law student named Fabien Mouillard as he tries to find his place in the world. Expected to become a successful lawyer by his uncle, Fabien's life takes an unexpected turn after an embarrassing run-in at the National Library. An ink spill leads to a confrontation with a respected scholar, named Monsieur Charnot, making Fabien rethink his life and start documenting his experiences. The book is both funny and serious, showing Fabien dealing with the pressures of school and social life, with unexpected adventures and lessons along the way.