"The War of the Buttons" is a novel by French author Louis Pergaud, first published in 1912. The story revolves around two rival groups of children from neighboring villages, Longeverne and Velrans, who engage in playful battles. The conflicts often involve the children cutting off each other's buttons as a symbol of victory, leading to humorous and adventurous situations. Set in rural France, the novel explores themes of childhood innocence, friendship, and the social dynamics of youth. The narrative captures the essence of childhood rivalry while highlighting the importance of camaraderie and the simple joys of growing up in a close-knit community.