Being an orphan, Le Breton acquired the status of ward of the nation and so was housed in state institutions.
There can be no doubt that this semi-criminal life of his had a vast influence on his writings, enlivening them with the accuracy that only experience can bring.
It has been speculated that it was the Vichy's anti-gambling laws that made Le Breton turn against the regime.
When Le Breton's daughter Mary-Yvonne was born, he lived up to his words and wrote his autobiography.
It was a poignant book, filled with anecdotal episodes from Le Breton's time in the orphanages, remand homes and prisons.
Although his tales lack plot expertise, his characters and unique language made them hugely popular.
The film was directed by Jules Dassin[2] and starred Jean Servais as Tony,[2] the mastermind of a daring jewel heist.