Au Bonheur des Dames (The Ladies Paradise) by Emile Zola

Pépé is Denise's brother. He is five-years-old when they arrive in Paris, and he is described as a calm and compliant child, who never causes Denise any trouble, except for the fact that she must work to provide for his needs. Pepe is also said to be more beautiful than his sister..... he has fair hair and childish features. Pepe spends much of the novel boarding with Madame Gras.