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4 kilos, 2,447 pages, 22,000 biographies: the directory of the French elite is released today. An institution that remains as relevant as ever, despite the explosion of social media platforms like Facebook.

4 kilos, 2,447 pages, 22,000 biographies—that is the Who’s Who. And it has been this way for 55 years. A true institution, it has become the definitive directory for business leaders, intellectuals, stars, celebrities, and even the illustrious unknown. « A print version of Facebook », as defined by Yseulys Costes, CEO from 1000mercis, a website specializing in interactive advertising and marketing, which is making its debut in the 2008 edition. And to become, like Yseulys, one of the fortunate honorees of the Who’s Who, nothing is simpler: one just needs to be part of the elite. Honor, prestige, merit, talent, and expertise—these are the criteria for being featured in the dictionary of « people who matter in France ».

22,000 human stories
In this book, you will discover the essence of 22,000 personalities and as many « human comedies » to use the charming expression of his president, Antoine Hébrard. Thus, as you leaf through the pages of this massive volume with a keen eye, you will discover that a certain Nicolas Sarközy de Nagy-Bosca possesses a postage stamp collection and made a point of mentioning it; that Carlos Ghosn is a bridge enthusiast; or that in 1999, Dominique Strauss-Kahn received the “Pipe Smoker of the Year” award presented by the Confrérie des maîtres-pipiers de Saint-claude, and so on.

Beyond these little anecdotes, be careful not to let this red directory trip you up. Because yes, in the Who’s Who, not everything is true! Fifteen bios have been arranged or are entirely imaginary, inserted specifically to mislead the competition. If you spot the name of a 6-year-old, you’re on the right track—you have 14 errors left to find!

Ultimately, the Who’s Who also serves as an extensive and invaluable professional tool—a wealth of verified information covering the education, employment, publications, honors, families, and even the hobbies of the 22,000 elected officials.  

More info:

“Who’s Who 2008”, published by Jacques Lafitte, Skinluxe binding, €495.

The Who’s Who is also available in a digital version on its website whoswho.fr. Biography price: €6 per unit, annual subscription €495.