France Books

I am Balinese, have a restaurant and love food. I especially love Thai food.

The recipes in this book are excellent and have obviously all been tested by the author. Follow them and you will not be disappointed.

The presentation is clear at all times and the photographs are superb.

Partcularly helpful are a couple of pages on which wines best accompany Thai food - and they are not those that you would immediately think of. The explanations are interesting and illuminating.

I would recommend this book to restaurant owners, as well as people cooking at home for a few friends.

very tasty. quite healthy. many recipes are quick and easy, too. some ingredients are a little tough to get, but easily substituted. gorgeous pictures.

This book has delicous recipes which are easy to follow (with color pictures of most dishes). The dishes taste like delicous restaurant-grade food and are healthy and easy to prepare.

Through this amazing memior, the reader gets a rare insight into the true nature of the mysterious Henry Miller. While most of his books are autobiographical, it's hard to separate fact from fiction. Henry Miller is a much more interesting and complex person than he portrays himself in his books. I highly recommend this book to any fans of Henry Miller as well as anyone who wants to better understand the infamous author of Tropic of Cancer.

This book is a must-read for Henry Miller devotees who want to understand the genesis of this great writer. Written by his close friend Brassai a fascinating story is told about Miller's down and out days in Paris during the 1930's and how his vision of writing developed. It is replete with personal anecdotes about Miller's views of Paris, his hatred (ambivalent as it was) of his homeland and his relations with the women in his life. It more than anything shows Miller as the writer refusing to sell-out by having the essence of his writing edited away by the censorius literary status quo of his day.

Although Miller's books are largely autobiographical, it is sometimes difficult to discern "Henry Miller" from "Henry Miller's world". In reading this book by Brassai, we learn some of the methods Miller used to construct his world-- thus providing a deeper understanding of the man. While this book is by no means exhaustive, it does provide a glimpse into the man. There are numerous descriptions of Henry Miller available, but to get an insider's view, it is essential to read this book written by a man who knew Miller as well as any person can know another.

A very powerful and exquisite book. I recommend this book to all middle school educators. It would do well on a summer reading list. The book is moving and empowering. The hidden children are often an overlooked part of high school Holocaust studies. This book speaks volumes about human nature, from the couple who took him in, a Hidden Jewish child, to exploit a slave like labor, to the people who really helped him survive. Isaac Millman's description of the changes in his life from the perspective of the child that he was during the is moving and informative. This is a courageous book. I recommend it to All.

Also, the artwork is stellar. Very moving on so many levels.

Isaac Millman tells the true story of his youth spent in hiding from the Nazis in a compelling memoir that features his outstanding artwork. We follow young Isaac as he and his parents enter the Free Zone of France, only to find that this is only a respite until the Nazis again intrude. Isaac's father is taken to a "camp", which he and his mother are allowed to visit once; then disaster falls as he and his mother are rounded up for deportation. How Isaac escapes and is placed in foster homes for the duration of the war is told through Millman's sparse writing and his vivid drawings. As with most Holocaust tales, there is no happy ending, but Millman survives and is able to share his journey with us, and that is all we can ask. This is a splendid book that shows how even the youngest victims of the Holocaust found inner strength. We are privileged to know their stories. Recommended.

During World War II over a million Jewish children were murdered by Nazis: survivors were often those who were in hiding. Author Isaac Millman was one of these children, and his story recounts the kindness of strangers, his move from city to countryside, and how he was forced to shed his Jewish identity to survive. After the year he kept his story to himself: fifty years later it's told, in Hidden Child's series of black and white photos and first-person memoir for grades 5-8.

This non-fiction book is a unique collection of real-life accounts from individuals who as children were sheltered during the Nazi era in the mountains of Southern France in a town called Le Chambon. This work is quite admirable, as individuals interviewed recall their experiences in journal form. The stories attest to the heartbreak and the realistic dangers of the times, but provide an added sense of hope and an appreciation for those who rose up against evil. Each entry is followed with an epilogue that gives the reader the satisfaction of knowing what has become of each child. The stories are not without pain and great loss, but what shines through is the righteousness of the citizens of La Chambon. The Jewish children who were sent to La Chambon, a Protestant community, were separated from their parents. In the face of trauma, the children were warmly welcomed into their new community. The children attended school, worked on farms, and participated in activities with other children. The uniqueness of La Chambon was in the sense of duty the entire community had in protecting the Jewish children. Many of the individuals discuss their Judaism, including the struggle to make sense of their religious identity. The "Note to Readers" in the beginning of the book, clearly details the research process and the care taken by the authors to share these stories with authenticity. The authors' passion for the project is felt throughout the book. For ages 11- 16.

I just chanced upon this remarkable book: Hidden on the Mountain by Deborah Durland DeSaix and Karen Gray Ruelle: Stories of Children Sheltered from the Nazis in Le Chambon. The authors spent four years finding and interviewing people, who as children and youth were protected during WWII by this community. They have then masterfully proceeded to tell their stories.

Le Chambon is a mountainous region of France inhabited by Huguenot Christians. These people, many poor farmers, opened their homes and supported three children's homes for children needing safe haven during WWII. Many of these children were Jews. They are credited with saving at least 3,500 Jews as well as about 1,500 other refugees.

In addition to the memories of the children and youth, the book includes a detailed time line of events of the war; numerous pictures of the children, people, and places mentioned in the book; a glossary; index; maps; and informative chapters about the war, the region, and its people.

This book was written for children and is exactly what I am looking for to share with my children, ages 10 and 13, as we study WWII.

This book is geared for preteens and reflects absolutely accurately the interviewees' stories. We can attest to it, because we were there and are written up in the book. To this day, the people of Le Chambon do not understand why they are going down in history because "they only did what was right". This book is definitely worth reading.
Hanne & Max Liebmann

Three writers can make me laugh out loud on public transport (which, in itself, is no laughing matter - especially whilst travelling alone) but Bill Bryson and Alan Bennett make me laugh 'til the tears roll. So too can George East. More please George.

`Who'd want to read about us buying a place in France' asked George East, when his wife suggested keeping a diary of their doings to while away the time on the numerous necessary ferry crossings. `It's not as if anything particularly interesting has happened!'

But, write it, he did, and the result is `Home & Dry in France', sub-titled `A Year in Purgatory'. Getting it published, though, was another story, too long to tell here!

At the outset, George tells us his book is not to be regarded as a primer for those wishing to buy property in France ... and, in fact, claims at one point it's a work of fiction (`This is a true story ... only the facts have been changed (1970s `Dragnet' spoof))

With a wicked and wry humour, George leads us through the minefield of acquiring not one but two properties, introducing us to various engaging characters met along the way. It's an odd paradox, but the Normandy bocage, where the story is set, is less than an hour's drive from the busy ferry port of Cherbourg ... but, to most British, it's undiscovered country, in many places, even a step back in time.

Throughout, the stories are peppered liberally with advice for the would-be buyer, as well as `cautionary tales' which I read with a certain amount of schadenfreude and more than a few chuckles.

The `Year in Purgatory' ends with Monsieur and Madame East installed in a ruined watermill Moulin de la Puce (Mill of the Flea) which became their home for many years. But, they aren't `Home and Dry' yet. There's a lot of work to do, more places to visit and more characters to meet. Read this and enjoy ... and rejoice that there's more to come.

This is a witty tale of the difficulties encountered when buying a home in a foreign country. The characters are full of life and somewhat quirky. The story is poignantly funny. A 'must read' for anyone contemplating a house in France, or someone who just has an interest in France and the French.
An excellent book.

A really fantastic resource for photos and illustrations of the buildings and men of the Maginot Line. One thing I really liked is that in the 2nd half of the book, which concentrates on the men and uniforms, you get not only some great black and white photos, but also color illustrations done using the particular black and white photos shown as a guide so you can see what the patches etc looked like in color instead of having to refer to a color chart showing the insignia (it's there too). After ordering volume 1 just a few weeks ago I'm in for the rest of the series.

I don't understand French but I bought this book for the pictures and the topic. I had the good fortune to have visited the Maginot Line near Longuyon and wanted a picture book as a souvenir. This book surpasses my expectations and the lavish presentation and format sets new standards on presenting a little known topic.

Excellent book which is well illustrated and presents an interesting view of the planning and construction of the ouvrages (forts) of the Maginot Line. The authors provide data along with the most comprehensive view yet of the troops that served in the Maginot Line in northeast France. Virtually every regiment, most of them RIF (Fortress Infantry Regiments) are included in the descriptions along with details on the uniforms and insigna worn. A knowledge of French is not really needed to enjoy this book, although a good dictionary might be useful. If you are reading this you can also use one of the many translation sites on the web to help you through the book. This is presently one of the best illustrated books available on the Maginot Line in the U.S. This is volume 1 of a 4 volume series. The second book will cover the the armament used and the third will deal with the short combat history of the Maginot Line. The final book will be devoted to the Little Maginot Line in the southeast on the Alpine front with Italy. Best of all, the price of this book is relatively modest considering its size and the number of illustrations (182 pages with from 1 to 4 illustrations or charts on almost every page).

I have just finished the "acknowledgments" section of Brian Bouldrey's new book, and it's one of the best I've ever read. That may sound like hyperbole, but it's not. I'm a voracious reader -- I tear through 5-10 "acknowledgments" sections every week -- and Mr. Bouldrey's is as good as any penned by Mailer, Updike, or (God rest his soul) Vonnegut.

Instead of struggling in vain to adequately describe the merits of Bouldrey's acknowledgements, let me just quote a short passage from what is destined to become a classic of the form:

"The author wishes to thank . . . Larry Wood . . . ."

Bouldrey, Brian. "Honorable Bandit: A Walk Across Corsica", University of Wisconsin Press, 2007.

Deceptive Humility

Amos Lassen and Literary Pride

The University of Wisconsin Press has taken the lead in the academic field of publishing books relevant to our community. Brian Bouldrey, one of the leading gay men of letters published with them and the result is always exceptional. In
"Honorable Bandit, he takes us to he island of Corsica where the beach is as white as sugar, the sea is deep and dark as wine and the food and drink is spectacular. Bouldrey walked across Corsica so that he could spend time with himself and to think about his life. At the same time he could also avoid thinking and could escapeâ"escape to remember and to revel in his past and to mourn his losses. For two weeks he and a German friend named Petra hiked cross the land and in this book he gives us a journal of the experience. Corsica was t be for Bouldrey a place for reflection so that he could explore himself first of all ad then the difference in cultures and friendships.
He surmounted physical dangers and challenges in order to find himself and risked getting lost and facing personal challenges as memory often forces people to do.
It is somewhat hard to classify this book"it is both memoir and travelogue and also lampoon". Most of us are unfamiliar with Corsica and the beautiful pictures he creates in our minds are not likely to be forgotten quickly
Bouldrey's journal is humorous and touching at the same time. It is also very wise and extremely touching. As we travel with him, we also explore ourselves and it is easy then to look into the places in our hearts and face issues we may have avoided facing. We can deal with our own demons and Edens and Hells. All of this is in Corsica just as all of this is within every individual. Reading Bouldrey face his inner soul allowed me to peek into my own. Reading Bouldrey allows us to know him and to know ourselvesâ"it is as if he is the tour guide on each readerâ(tm)s personal journey to self discovery and acceptance..
Bouldrey's humility is deceptive at times and fro this I learned that we should move simply"one step at a time and that step must be timely and measured and full of thought".
We live in a world where destinations are fixed places ad by leering how to move toward our goal we may be forced to look at our mortality and the road that lies before us. The beauty of Corsica is a metaphor for the beauty of life and while we may trek on the path toward wherever we are going, we question who we are ad what our purpose in life is. I sincerely believe that all of us want to leave a mark on the world and to be remembered for the accomplishments we have made but it is impossible to journey through life and not be affected by it. We also learn that a set destination is not always setâ"obstacles and accidents can change our paths and when all is said and doe, it is up to us to decide which is more importantâ"where we end up or how we get there.
When I closed the covers of the book I felt cleansed. As I walked through Corsica, which s described so beautifully in Bouldreyâ(tm)s words, I also walked through where I had been and thought very carefully where I am going. A perfect example of this is how I ended up in Arkansas. Had it not been for Katrina, my life would have been completely different and I may not have ever read this book or written this review. It was not planned to be that way but that is how it turned out. Walking through Corsica with Brian Bouldrey allowed me to walk through my own life. Whether where I am now is worth it or not is a question to be answered and while the journey was not always fun, the rewards have been great.

If you've read any of Bouldrey's other work, this book will come less of a surprise than a delight. If you're new to Bouldrey, I envy you the discovery.

"Honorable Bandit" is part travelogue, part memoir, part meditation on walking, and part shaggy dog story. Bouldrey spent several weeks walking across Corsica, the Mediterranean island best known as the birthplace of Napoleon (the ruler, not the pastry), and he does offer tips on dealing with pigs, flash floods, and tiny horses. But "Honorable Bandit" is not a guidebook. Corsica merely provides the context for tales of vendettas, lonzu, throat singing, disagreeable roosters, and a host of other subjects that won't get you across the island any quicker or more safely. Speed is not the point, after all -- the journey is about the journey, and the journey is through life and history, not an island that seems to be saying, "We're #1!"

Reading the book is like watching a slideshow given by a loquacious, but very engaging, host, who stops the show for long stretches as one story leads to another, starting with the slide, but then sliding into tales of family and friends and escaped convicts and past journeys and memorable meals, yet always returning to the next slide, and just in the nick of time. In the hands of a lesser writer, such a book would be tedious at best and infuriating at worst. But Bouldrey loves language, and loves the reader, and has such wonderful things to tell you that you forgive him his excesses, even when they are excessive.

The problem with most memoirs is that the memoirist generally thinks of him- or herself as the most important -- and certainly most interesting -- character in the story. Bouldrey is rarely guilty of that crime. He uses his experiences as a way to tell us about what he's discovered along the way, and in doing so, allows us to make our own discoveries. He is a most generous host, and his book is a most satisfying repast.

...but then, I'm just a "regular" woman. This book came into my office, free, when I was the editor of a national woman's magazine in 1983. It's written for women who want to look good all the time, have a lot of style (but never clothes that have more to say than we do), and give VERY LITTLE THOUGHT to getting dressed in the morning. Hot Tips is a short book, liberally illustrated. I've been referring to it for 23 years, and now that I see it's FIFTY CENTS ... grab these while you can! Chances are it will never come back in print. The author, Frances Patiky Stein, is the woman (when an editor at Vogue) who discovered Vera Wang. Buy this book -- quickly. Never loan it out.

This, even though published in the 80's (the famously tragic model Gia is on the cover of my edition), is without a doubt the most complete practical fashion & style book I own. The illustrations (couture style line drawings) are easily translated to today. The suggestions for basic clothing, shoe, jewelry, makeup, etc wardrobes for multiple uses (day city, day country, evening, resort, etc) are still universally applicable.
Quite frankly this book could be used as a "bible for dressing" by anyone.

THE BEST ADVICE EVER GIVEN ON WARDROBES. TRAVEL WARDROBES, SEASONAL WARDROBES, ANY TYPE OF WARDROBES. EXCELLENT

Hotline Heaven is a work which must not be read solely for its story, although the plot is most interesting and well-crafted. Instead open the novel to the first page and relax into the poetry which Ms. Park infuses with a personal magic into the voice of the female narrator. Here are articulations from the loneliest and most fragile dimensions of the human spirit which emerge in the darkness of a sleepless night. Ms. Park has a very rare ability to produce a story which begs to be read several times for the pleasure of both its beauty and its insights. To truly savor its richness, one must approach it with some experience of the uncertainty and unexpected beauty life has to offer. I await the next world she will create with great anticipation.

This book deserves a very careful reading as Ms. Park displays a rare gift for the articulation of inner landscapes of loneliness, hope and reconciliation. The book has layers of meaning which are woven together through the poetic and evocative talents of its author

I was moved and heightened by Frances Park's novel "Hotline Heaven". Turning each page, I can only compare it to rising higher and higher to another plane where only the inspired go.

While the classification of "protozoans" has altered much over the last few years, Jahn et al. has remained as a standard text for identifying these strange microscopic creatures. The second edition was published in 1978 and the fact that it is still in print indicates its utility.

When used with Kudo's "Protozology" and the more recent "Free-Living Freshwater Protozoa: A Color Guide" by D. J. Patterson, along with a phase-contrast compound microscope, almost any known protozoan can be determined to genus. Even with simpler equipment most can be reasonably placed to genus. Phase contrast is useful to more easily see some of the characters, such as cilia and cirri.

In general, this is a very user friendly book (as are most, if not all, of the books in the "How to Know" series.) Some sections that are especially useful include those on protozoan sizes (absolutely necessary in most cases), drawing protozoans, and motion in protozoans. The illustrations are generally very good and clearly show characters needed to identify a specimen. The descriptions are equally clear and helpful. In addition, specialized terms are defined in the index, a very useful innovation as you only have to look them up once!

If you are interested at all in microscopic organisms, either as a professional or an amateur, this book is a must for your library.

This book is perfect for the serious amateur who is interested in identifying and understanding the protozoa. It is extensively illustrated with meticulously crafted pen-and-ink drawings, and the author gives us instructions on how (and why!) to make good drawings of our own. The book is technical enough to be useful, with the technical terms carefully defined and explained. The coverage of the organisms is thorough and practical, given that to key out protozoans much further than the family level requires professional training. This is the most useful book I have found so far in my quest to identify the microscopic organisms of Guam.

I run a microscope sales company (MicroscopeWorld.com) and used this book a few years ago when we produced a high school video program on Protozoology. It was indispensable for identifying the many protozoans found in fresh water. I highly recommend it!