
Oui, I've read everything I can get my hands on about the French
culture. Take advantage of my reviews and enjoy the endless hours of discovery!
Click on book image to purchase directly from Amazon.
"French or Foe" by Polly Platt
This book was offered as a gift from my French father-n-law. What was he trying
to tell me? Polly Platt is an American woman married to a Frenchman in the upper
echelons of society, so her view of France (or more specifically Paris) is
somewhat skewed towards a specific frame of reference. What I liked most about
this book was that she interviewed many American "transplants" and quotes them throughout.
There are excellent chapters on the "French Businessworld" and
"French Mothers-in-Law" which I found particularly useful. Go for it!

"French Toast" by Harriet Rochefort
Sweet Harriet - what I like most about this book is that the woman who wrote it
really came from nowhere - meaning Midwest America. She has a comical
perspective which makes for a delightful read. Although it focuses on Paris, it
also touches on the country-side which is a world of its own and worth learning
about. Paris is quite different from the rest of the country. I appreciate
Harriet's candid descriptions and self-awareness.

A well-meaning friend loaned me this book before I went to France for the first time. To say the least, it was a "shock", but it really helped me prepare for the trip and was highly entertaining. It also has excellent practical information like how to open a bank account, and what to expect as far as your emotional outlook once transplanted. Great read!
