The Boy Who Dreamed of Pão de Queijo

The Boy Who Dreamed of Pão de Queijo is, above all, a profoundly human narrative. It is a biographical testimony of someone who, even amidst losses and uncertainties, chose to trust in the future. A story that carries us from childhood in Minas Gerais to the sparkling lights of Paris, from the corridors of the Sorbonne to the aroma of a home-cooked kitchen, from longing for a mother to the creation of a singular family with Thierry and Raphael. This book touches on many themes, but above all, it is about love in its many forms and layers. In France, where he has lived for 40 years, Antônio has built a bridge between two worlds. As the founder of Central do Brasil in Paris and the brand Monsieur Pão de Queijo, he became an informal ambassador of Brazilian culture: promoting exhibitions, gatherings, dialogues, and welcoming traveling artists. His work and life touch both Brazil and France with delicacy and impact. Antônio is a cultural enthusiast, a storyteller, and a man whose generosity is almost an intangible heritage. He is also a survivor: of pain, distance, uncertainty, the pandemic, and prejudice. This book stands as living proof that love, art, and words endure. Editora Porta has published academic, legal, and literary works since 2021, with releases in Portugal, Italy, and Brazil. This book marks a new editorial direction: our first venture into biographical narrative. We had the honor of experiencing Antônios story in the very home where it continues to be written: in a garden full of flowers and affection, surrounded by music, breakfasts with pão de queijo1, and smiles that warm the days. There, we were welcomed by Antônio and Thierry, their dogs Roxy and Waiko, and other domestic animals, with such tenderness that the editorial process transcended the professional, becoming intimate, memorable, and heartfelt. Those days were filled with sharing, listening, laughter, and tears. To this couple, who opened their doors and hearts to me, my eternal gratitude Th