France Books

One day, someone told me this story. I was so moved by the story that I checked Amazon and they had this beautiful book. The story and pictures have become a very important symbol that I have bought numerous copies to hand out to the teenage boys that have difficult lives that I have worked with at school. In addition, I keep a few on hand to give out to anyone I feel needs to have this wonderful book. It is my hope that they can refer back to it when life gets very dark for them. This story is more than PMA, it is true. It was awesome to read where the story originated from and the watercolored pictures and tastefully done. In addition, the information about the author is very touching and the forward by Bishop Tutu is remarkable. Yes, you will want to buy this book. Yes, you do!

This was a wonderfully illustrated children's book sold at an African gallery in New York City on Broadway. An old tale from Ghana about how an Eagle realized it was the King of the Birds, Majestic, Regal, and meant to SOAR rather than grovel on the ground with chickens. Nothing is sadder than a soul who won't claim their best self and rise up to the challenge.

Birds of a Feather Flock Together and in the words of Les Brown "You can go out every day and find pidgeons but it takes time to find eagles, and eagles fly!"

Teach your children to claim their Eagle spirit today!

This African Tale is about a farmer who comes across a baby eagle and decides that he will raise it as a chicken, and so he takes it back to his farm and puts it with the other chickens. The eagle soon learns how to act like a chicken. Everything continues on fine until one day the farmers friends comes over and says this is no chicken this is an eagle and he belongs in the sky. It takes the man three times until the eagle flies away into the sunset. I like this story because it shows how much things change depending on their current environments, and sometimes that environment can hold us back from being the best we can. The author does a great job at portraying the act of finding ones true self and become independent. The illustrations in this book are also great.

I truly enjoyed this children's picture book, which appeals to all ages, because of the inspiration and message it conveys. In Africa a small eagle chick if found lost after a storm. It is taken back to a village where it is raised as a chicken. It talks, walks and eats like a chicken unto one day a visitor notices that amongst the chickens there is an eagle. He tries everything to get it to fly but it believes and acts like it is a chicken, until one day he takes it back to the mountains where it was found as a chick to meet the sun at sunrise. Upon the mountain, once taken from the environment it has been placed in and seeing the bright light of the horizon and the view it realizes it can fly and does so and never lives the life of a chicken again as it soars high in the sky.

I loved the message because it shows that we as a people have been treated like chickens by society, but we are truly royal eagles. Don't be content on being a chicken, but stretch forth your wings and fly! The illustrations are wonderful, and the message is worth attaining the book alone. This is a good book to add to the treasure chest of books within your home or your children's collection to inspire them to spread their wings and fly to reach new heights in the horizon's light! God is Love!

I bought this wonderful book for my nephews and loved it so much I'm buying another for my grandson. The story of an eagle that is brought up among chickens and thinks and acts like a chicken until it is encouraged to fly like an eagle has several messages. I'm a prison chaplain and it reminds me of the men and women who could be soaring on eagles wings if they can break out of the mold of their emotional environment. It has a spiritual message - we are children of God and can live a victorious life if only we will appropriate it. It also can illustrate the release of the soul at death. But it is definitely a delightful tale in it's own right.

This book is an irresistible read for anyone with a love of food an an interest in the history, geography and culture of regional France and its food products and cuisine. Root writes beautifully and it's impossible not to become as enthusiastic as the author as he shares his vast knowledge of each region of France and its culinary traditions. A book to return to again and again.

Mr Root's overarching theory is that French food can be divided into the three culinary domains of fat, butter and oil. The Food of France reflects this belief and is similarly divided into three main sections, each chapter within a section dealing with the geographical/culinary regions within each domain. Within this structure, each chapter explores the food of a specific culinary region, and highlights the dishes distinct to that region.

Underpinning Mr Root's overarching theory is the premise that food and how it is cooked is intimately related to and is influenced by the geography, history, and culture (agri- and otherwise) of its region. As a result, each region develops a food and cooking style unique to itself. He proceeds to illustrate this with erudition, verve, wit and style. Drawing on his knowledge of French geography, history, and culture, as well as what seems to be his vast gastronomic experiences across France, he makes a fine case for how each have been an ingredient in shaping and influencing the development of the food of each region. The Food of France will not only tell you what goes into an omelette provencale, it will tell you why this is different from an omelette a la nomande or an omelette a la nicoise, as well as consider different theories as to how the omelette got its name.

The book comes with a general index, as well as an index of food and dishes. Dishes are described with sufficient particularity that a good cook could reproduce the dish. I should note that as the book was written in 1958, some of his information is a little outdated (his recommendations for good years of wine) or a little late (his urgings to visit Provence before it becomes too touristed). Notwithstanding this, The Food of France is an excellent resource and wonderful read: perhaps there can be no better recommendation than to admit that I enjoyed it so much that I have gone to buy The Food of Italy, also written by Root.

My Personal Rating Scale:
5 stars: Engaging, well-written, highly entertaining or informative, thought provoking, pushes the envelope in one or more ways, a classic.
4 stars: Engaging, well-written, highly entertaining or informative. Book that delivers well in terms of its specific genre or type, but does not do more than that.
3 stars: Competent. Does what it sets out to do competently, either on its own terms on within the genre, but is nothing special. May be clichéd but is still entertaining.

2 stars: Fails to deliver in various respects. Significantly clichéd. Writing is poor or pedestrian. Failed to hold my attention.
1 star: Abysmal. Fails in all respects.

Now finishing my second reading of this tremendous book, all the while suspecting that Waverly Root was really a well-disguised poseur and not really the erudite man-of-the-world he appears to have been, I have to finally admit that, in addition to being one hell of a fine writer, he must also have been one of the most broadly-informed gourmands ever. True, occassional anecdotes and opinions of his betray the fact that the book was originally published 50 years ago, but the scope and intimacy of his knowledge with pretty much every provincial outpost, grand boulevard, and Basque backwater in France is astounding. I suspect he read and took to heart the 1950s edition of the Larousse Gastronomique, since many of the culinary practices he describes hardly deviate from what the Great Book says, but he provides so many examples of eating experiences that could be nothing but first-hand that I have to conclude that he actually DID spend his 30+ years in France doing little but travelling, eating, and drinking. These culinary expeditions are a treasure now: many of the regions he sampled so amply have been globalized to oblivion. His enthusiastic, almost childlike [but, nonetheless, world-wise] forays into the Haut Pyrenees, for example, record a local tradition of farmhouse cooking that is no more. But he was no mere chronicler of foods: his essays are leavened with witty, insightful, broadly-informed and fascinating anecdotes and contextual notes geographical, historical, literary, and agricultural. In this sense, I believe he was one of the pioneers of the broad, anectdotal form of journalism that remains perhaps the most effective means of presenting the world to an armchair audience. I have to forgive his peculiarities. Even his apparent contempt for Champagne seems inconsequential when I read his descriptions of travelling into darkest Corsica, sampling the wild, unrefined local wines, and immediately perceiving their perfect suitability to the food of the region. I am not aware of any other food and wine writer from that era who so heartily insisted on describing food and wine as a marriage. He wrote 20 years before Richard Olney brought his own sophistications to the table, and, understood in this context, his predilections must have been radical at the time.

I urge you to read this book with a willingness to forgive the occassional signs of age. They are few and forgivable. Please savor the writing, with its erudition, lovely sense of timing and flow, gentle humor and enthusiasm. Please also consider it as the eloquent indictment of globalization that it is. To read a book written in the uncritical heyday of postwar American optimism and to find in it laments that the old world was slipping away, a victim of commerce and centralized policymaking, is a poignant experience indeed. This book is an education like few others.

"The Food of France" is a delicious, exhausting account of the cuisine of France - definitely not reading for those watching their cholesterol level. Highly recommended.

The Food of France, written in 1958, is a wonderfully erudite and relaxed look into French cuisine. Root, who has evidently spent many years in France eating his way through its various provinces, has written a travelogue and a paen to French cuisine.

Root divides France into various gastronomic regions, and looks at the foods typical to each of these regions. His theory, that these gastronomic regions can be collated under three different regions - the domains of fat, butter and olive oil - forms the overarching structure of the book. In each region, he describes both its social and cultural history, as well as its geography and agriculture, in order to better explain why the food of that region developed in the way that it has. His riffs move from the origin of the name "Languedoc" (the language where "yes" was "oc" and not "oui") and "Carcassonne" to the reason for large roofs in the Jura region. While some of this information may undoubtedly be out of date (his urgent plea to visit Provence before it becomes too touristetd is definitely 20 years too late by now as are his recommedations of good years for particular wines), most of the information is still pertinent and interesting.

Among all of this, he manages to describe with luscious wit and warmth the food of the region. He will tell you with authority how snails are cooked, which cities have the best type of pastries, and what goes into the preparation of cote de porc a la vosgienne. If you've ever wondered about the difference between an omelette a la savoyarde (and he tells an amusing and fascinating story of how the omelette came to be so named) and an omelette a la lyonnaise, what a pamplemousse is or what goes into a cassoulet (depends on which region the cassoulet is made in), this is the book for you.

It comes with an excellent general index, as well as an index of food and dishes. Cooks out there might be interested to know that he frequently describes dishes with sufficient particularity that a good cook could reproduce some of the dishes so described, even though details as to proportions and cooking techiques are not provided.

I enjoyed this so much that I went off to buy The Food of Italy also by Root and am anticipating reading that with equal relish. There can really be no better recommendation than that.

I really enjoyed this book, although more illustrations and the addition of photos would have greatly enhanced it. It is an excellent English companion to Y. Mary's four volume series in French. There is a great deal of information cramed into 200 pages covering everything from the military mobilization plans to the fortification on the Northeast and Southeast Front known as the Maginot Line and the coastal defenses of France in World War II with additional information on the Mareth Line in Tunisia and the coastal defenses there.

This 200 page book is a useful introduction to the history and technical details of the Maginot Line. The Maginot Line is not only described, but it is placed into context within the overall French strategy of defense in the 1920's and 1930's. French strategic plans that the French had developed before the outbreak of WWII, and at the attempt to modernize and rearm the French Army, Navy and Air Force during this time period are covered. The chapters include: Marching to the Wrong Tune that describe post World War I policy, strategy, and more; The Maginot Line covering its development, construction and components; Closing the Gaps showing how the French extended their defenses along the frontier, modernized and economized on the fortifications; Sea and Air Defense examines another aspect of the French defensive system; March to Defeat shows what the Germans knew and public expectations as war approached; and the French at War covers the campaign and the role and use of the fortified systems.
The book also includes many amazing drawings, maps and numerous useful tables of data excellent drawings of the Maginot Line, tanks, ships, aircraft etc. Why there are no photos in this remarkable book seems strange, despite the excuses given in some of the other Amazon reviews. This is a book I strongly recommend especially because of the useful drawings and charts that, with the text, help the reader understand French strategy and the role of French fortifications in World War II.

A fine introduction to French defensive systems of World War II. In six chapters this book covers the inter-war period through World War II. The challenge of the French military after the Great War in deciding on doctrine and dealing with a basic demobilization of their forces is the theme of the first chapter. The next chapter covers the creation of the Maginot Line and how it was built and organized. The third chapter describes how the gaps in the French front between the Maginot Line and sea were covered including the Maginot Extension of the New Fronts and also the little known Mareth Line in Tunisia. Chapter 4 describes the naval and air defenses of the French nation. Chapter 5 and 6 deal with the events leading to the 1940 campaign, German intelligence on the French fortifications, and a summary of the events of the campaign showing the relationship of the fortifications to French strategy and some of the positive aspects the high command failed to take advantage of. There are many drawings in the book of more than just the Maginot Line. They include maps of the defenses, drawings of aircraft, ships and tanks and even perspectives of not just the Maginot line positions, but even a 340-mm gun turret block of the coastal defenses at Toulon! The book is a little pricey at almost $50, but the $10 CD supplement that I ordered from Merriam Press has many more illustrations including photos (there are no photos in the book)and copies of pre-war German plans although I do not know why this CD was not included with the book. This is about the best general work covering all aspects of the French defenses that I have seen in English.

I received this book with the Osprey Maginot Line book this week. After reading both, I find that it would have been nice to have similar colorful illustrations like those in the Osprey book included here. Unlike, the reviewer "Jackie", I do not think the book is seriously lacking in text, but maybe in illustrations. I have also noticed a number of typos and what appear to be editing errors. Still the work provides a good detailed description of the Maginot Line and also information on the Mareth Line of Tunisa and other French defenses. There is an amazing amount of information packed in this 200 page book. I am not aware of the CD mentioned by the other reviewers (maybe someone will add details), but this is a great book for those interested in what was going on on the "other side of the hill." I would give it a solid "4 Stars" but have made it "5 Stars" to compensate for "Jackies" distortions.

This small book is a wonderful introduction to the history and technical details of the Maginot Line. The author, not only describes the Maginot Line, but he also places the Maginot Line into context within the overall French strategy of defense in the 1920's and 1930's. He looks at the strategic plans that the French had developed before the outbreak of WWII, and at the attempt to modernize and rearm the French Army, Navy and Air Force during this time period. The author has included many wonderful drawings, maps and numerous useful tables of data about the Maginot Line, tanks, ships, aircraft etc.
One unfortunate choice that the publisher made about the book was the decision not to use the many photos that the author had gathered, many from his own photo collection. The publisher wanted to limit the overall size and cost of the book. Therefore the author has compiled a CD-ROM to accompany the book that contains many photos and additional maps and interesting material taken from German Pre-1940 intelligence documents. The CD adds to the overall strength of this book. (...)
I highly recommend this title to anyone interested in the Maginot Line and French Defense in 1940.

This is the third book of Parkman's that I've read. Previously, I read Pioneers of France in the New World and The Jesuits in North America. About all three I would say a) they are absolutely amazing works of brilliant, inspired scholarship, b) Parkman's measured, objective, caring approach to the topics -- and the beauty and tone of his writing -- is extremely compelling, and c) my grade school, high school, and college education did not provide me with the gritty, fascinating facts about what REALLY happened back in the 17th Century in North America.

This is not James Michener (as much as I have enjoyed his works) packaging and making sense of history -- or the dry, intellectualized expert texts I had to read in school -- or the politically correct wholesome simplified upbeat teachings of my youth, with for example the perfect Puritans and the friendly Indians sharing Thanksgiving.

This is what really happened, detail by detail, based on exhaustive research of original texts -- letters, reports, maps, government documents, earlier histories, etc. Fortunately for Parkman, the early adventurers did a lot of writing, including many of the members of religious orders who accompanied or in some cases led the explorations.

My main takeaway from these true histories is how incredibly dangerous, unsuccessful, and unpredictable the courses of events were in these times (and probably in our time as well). In a way they are like anti-stories, or anti-history. Good often does not prevail over evil; heroes do scandalous things; scoundrels act heroic; no one is assuredly, consistently good or evil; when you least expect it there is a generous caring act; and when you least expect it, when all is going well, there is a foolish, unfortunate, destructive act that ruins all that has been accomplished, etc.

That is, while there may be certain patterns in events, these patterns themselves are constantly shifting, and the most logical and predictable outcomes almost never happen. In other words, Parkman has truly captured life in all its shades of grey and inconsistencies.

His treatment of the Indians is a perfect example. By modern day standards, it is egregiously politically incorrect. But he reveals them in all of their savagery, helpfulness, childish immaturity, wisdom, thievery, generosity, deceit, and unpredictable kindness. The commonplace cannibalism and similarly common extreme forms of repulsive torture done by Indians are carefully documented and reported throughout his texts, as well as the way their easily given friendship essentially saved the lives of most of the key European adventurers at one time or another.

These books are definitely not for the faint of heart or people who want a simplistic "Dummies Guide" to history!

While there is a new Introduction, this is the historic account of Robert LaSalle's exploration of the Louisiana territory in the 1680s. Parkman first published this treatise in 1869; it has since been reprinted numerous times. An excellent, thoroughly engrossing recounting of the exploration of the territory which LaSalle claimed for France in 1682, through which the reader not only learns of the daily travails of the little band of explorers, but also, the human frailties of the man, Robert Cavelier, known as LaSalle. This book gives life to a name from history, and exemplifies the methodical research done by Parkman in the days before telephones, faxes, and copiers. I was thoroughly impressed by the subject and the writer. Excellent; informative, totally enthralling reading-writers of today should take note! Kudos to the publishers (and Krakauer) for bringing this series (back) to life!

For those who liked Ambrose's "Undaunted Courage" or Lansing's "Endurance", make room on your bookshelf for another favorite. Parkman tells the story of LaSalle's journeys in North America with a novelist's style and a historian's attention to detail.

Of particular interest were Parkman's references to things which exist "today" referring to his time, the mid to late 1800's. As such, the reader is treated to a double dose of history by viewing past events through the eyes of someone who wrote over 100 years ago. The book was an exciting and enjoyable read.

My only criticisms of the book were that the volume of the footnotes was somewhat distracting, and that a few key phrases were not translated from French. Otherwise, excellent.

Parkman is that unusual combination of great scholar and wonderful writer. His books depicting the history of French exploration of North America and the conflict between the French and the British for control of North America remain the basic narratives of these events. Parkman's writing, combining narrative, psychological insight into major historical actors, and use of rhetoric that seamlessly reflects his narrative, is often superb. This particular book is almost entirely devoted to the career of the Sieur De La Salle, the French explorer obsessed with establishing French control over the Mississippi valley. Parkman provides vivid portraits of the almost incredible hardships of travel in North America, the character of politics in the French colonies, and an insightful treatment of La Salle and his associates. Parkman's powerful but restrained language often recalls the style of Tacitus.

I picked this up on a lark and found I couldn't put it down. A fascinating story, extremely well written and a pure pleasure to read. I travel extensively and found it amazing how many places I go to regularly have a direct link to La Salle. Couldn't recommend it more.

So chic. So classic. Just the absolute best. Nothing more to say.

As one of the earliest designers to mix classic and modern styles together, this book on Frances Elkins proves that she did so masterfully. She understood, as few designers did at the time, the relationship between the two was a shared use of wonderful materials and superior craftmanship. This book proves to be a great source of inspiration for successfully accomplishing the same mix today.

This book portrays the superb taste of Frances Elkins through her long and successful career. Her bold use of color was unheard of when she began her trade in the early part of the twentieth century, but she did it with such style and finess that it was accepted. The use of fine antiques blended with contemporary furnishings was something else not done previously and set the trend for the "eclectic" style so popular ever since. First, working with her renowned architect brother, David Adler, in the Chicago area and then striking it on her own merit, she set a style and was one of the early women designers to become successful. The photographs and color interpritation in this book are excellent and in profusion. This book is a must for those interested in the interior design field, both past and present, because of her ageless style.

The foreword by Albert Hadley is an excellent way to introduce the work of Frances Elkins, whose interiors are timeless, sophisticated and well composed. Elkins was so far ahead of her time and it is incredible to look at photos of homes she decorated in the 30's and 40's that still look modern, if not at least current, today. Elkins definitely had a style of her own, and has undoubtedly paved the way for modern designers today like Kelly Wearstler by creating interiors that were a clever blend of styles, periods and genres.

Elkins actively promoted the work of Jean-Michel Frank and his associates (the Giacometti brothers) in the USA, and was one of the first decorators to commission Tony Duquette to produce pieces for her interiors. She is without doubt one of the greatest decorators of the 20th Century.

Full of inspirational photos, this will definitely be a book in my library that I will go back to time after time after time.

Frances Elkins was a legendary interior designer of the early 1900s whose works included major residential and public commissioned projects as well as fabrics, furniture and accessories. Her works were among the best of her times and she earned a reputation for her progressive outlook in the field - but Stephen M. Salny's FRANCES ELKINS INTERIOR DESIGN is the first book devoted to her life and works, gathering all of her achievements under one cover. Full-page displays of all her works from thirty years accompany biographical and artistic notes in a splendid, authoritative treatment by a researcher whose lifelong study of David Adler led inevitably to his sister Frances Elkins (who was Adler's collaborator on many commissions).

It's best monography of French WW I aviation in Englisch language. Marvelous plans (in modeler's scales!), hundreds high-quality bw photos, lot of useful information in text. In minus - there are small number of colour plates. If you interested in WW I aviation, you must have it!

This is a massive book that tells everything there is to know about every aircraft developed by the French during WW1. I had no idea there were so many. Very detailed and very well done. Hundreds of pictures and three view drawings. Full color illustrations in the back. It is a bit pricey. Is it worth it? If you are a hardcore fan of French WW1 aircraft...yes.

This is truly an honest and inspiring testimony of amother's experience with prenatal diagnosis and termination. Itchallenges the notion that God would never guide a woman to choosetermination when a genetic anomaly is prenatally diagnosed. Mrs. Lyon is open about how she struggled with guilt and depression, but has now found a healthy way to cope with her pain. It should be read by any Christian person put in this position who is struggling with a life-changing decision.

This is XXL book not only in its size and weight, but mostly for the contents. I wish I had similar on other air services of Great War. No doubt is worth the money paid...because it accumulates huge amount of systematic information which helps in orientation among sometimes confusing mess of names and abbreviations of French air service. All planes (even prototypes and concepts) have at last one photograph. For example Nieuports are covered on 70 large pages, SPADs on 50 - monographs of its own. Taking in account the difficulties caused by destroying many of original sources it must take years for the team to produce it.

This is without a doubt the finest study of French military aircraft during World War One to be published, and will become a classic reference. It presents a very detailed organizational account of the units of the French Air Service, and then a complete detailed account of over 400 aircraft types hat were flown. More than 900 photos, over 180 three-view drawings in 1/72 and 1/144 scales, 25 pages of color art work by Alan Durkota of 56 different aircraft. 1997, new hard bound, color laminated cover, 9 x 12, glossy page stock, 618 pp. FLYING MACHINES PRESS series

This book was exactly what i needed to work with on an interior design project. It was easy to read and not so detailed that would make it dull.

As a loving and dutiful son of both cultures, having been reared in France under the Nazi terror and having commanded American Infantry during the Korean War, I feel qualified to greet this treasure of a book with enthusiastic acclaim for being such a moving and exquisite celebration of the Entente Cordiale that holds these two great republics in a bond that no amount of maligning can destroy.The evocative text together with the extensive collection of superb photographs are the guides for a cultural, architectural and historical visit to the enriching French heritage that graces all the regions of the United States.No effort has been spared in designing and in producing this large and most elegant volume which is in itself a work of art.

Very nice photographs with informative text. A great gift for any American of French ancestry or someone with an appreciation of the French contribution to our culture.

"French America" is a dazzling, oversized coffee table book which opens an entirely new world all around the reader. I had expected a treasure of great pictures and was not disappointed. What I had not expected is the narration, not only descriptions of the pictures, but of the history of the French role in the development of the United States.

This book is a tour through many buildings associated with French settlement and development in the United States. Beginning with the early Huguenot settlements in New York and South Carolina, the reader is taken on to the heart of French America along the Great Lakes and down the Mississippi. Despite living among the greatest collection of French Colonial architecture in the country, I learned of near by structures of which I was totally unaware. The journey continues down the river to Louisiana with its living French culture amid the houses and buildings surviving from a way of life that is Gone With The Wind. The tour winds through sites in the Eastern states associated with French participation in the French and Indian and Revolutionary Wars and concludes with Civic buildings in the Washington-Virginia area inspired by French architecture.

This book broadened my understanding of the French heritage around us and sharpened my appetite to visit some of these areas. It can do the same for you.

French America is one of those rare coffee table books that is both beautiful to look at and features a well-written and highly interesting text. The photos display incredible luminosity and skill. Both interior and exterior shots are infused with light that reaches out and grabs the viewer. The book itself is a true find - a vast historical and architectural frescoe of the French sites and buildings in America, spanning from New England, the Great Lakes and Mississippi Valley to the Gulf of Mexico.

I was fascinated to learn the history of French architecture from constructions along the Mississippi Valley, like Sainte Genevieve, Missouri, built by Normans using the same bousillage and colombage techniques found in local French villages. The more sophisticated architecture of the Creole plantations in Louisiana and the urban and civic buildings of Philadelphia, New York and Washington, D.C., created from the plan by Pierre-Charles L'Enfant remid us of the once prevading French influence in this country. Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Virginia estate, was inspired by the Hôtel de Salm in Paris and his admiration of French architecture. The Maison Carrée in Nîmes was the prototype of another of Jefferson's architectural projects, the Capitol in Richmond, Virginia, designed along with the French architect Clérisseau.

The special features on history and French culture in the US are a delight, including the Huguenots and their descendants. George Washington himself had Protestant ancestors from the l'Ile de Ré off the Brittany coast. Other sections deal with the Creole influences and the cultural importance of the Cajuns in Louisiana. As the book points out, before the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, when Napoleon sold the territory for 15 million dollars,(the greatest real estate deal ever) the settlers of French origin made important contributions in the realms of architecture, education and trade. The Jesuits educated and converted Indian tribes, the coureurs de bois established fur trading posts, talented artisans constructed houses and monuments largely inspired by French architecture from France, Canada and the French West Indies while blending them in such as way as to create a unique new style : American architecture. A great discovery !

"French Style - How to Think, Shop and Dress Like a French Woman" was published by Express (the clothing store) in 1993. The book design is unusual. It is a an oversized 10" by 9" soft cover book with a stiff book jacket cover making it a cross between a hard cover and soft cover book.

The text is illustrated with line drawings and a number of photographs (mostly black and white). It helps you learn to THINK like a French woman. It will help you learn to make the decisions a French woman would when shopping, dressing, playing and more.

French woman are known for their chic appearance and attitude. Within these pages Vienne who was born and raised in France conveys what it is that makes the French woman so stylish. She begins by looking to the past. A look at how the French fashion evolved. Then she shares the purebred classics that make the French look - items such as the supreme black turtleneck, hermes scarf, red gloves etc.

Vienne encourages you to "epater les bourgeois" that is shock say a French matron. Here is where you wear things that will raise the eyebrow such as a sweater turned inside out, sunglasses in the rain etc. As Vienne says "you cannot have style without breaking the rules". Take what you have and add little twists to make it special and give it style.
In the States we dress "appropriately" in France a French woman will push buttons - be surprising and fresh.

Vienne gives a list of "do's" and "don'ts" and she gets into "Le Shopping". Armed with more attitude than cash the French woman will use her wits and savvy to find the very best.

Like the design itself this book is very unusual. Not your usual dress like this fare. This is a book that goes beyond the obvious of what is style and helps explain the mystery of how to make style yours.

French style is not a trend, it's a way of life. A way of thinking and feeling. Veronique captures that in this book!

Lee Mellott

I bought this book about 5 years ago. Just casually flipped through it and read only parts (I don't why). Now, I've found another copy and have read it from cover to cover. I honestly don't think I was ready (5 yrs ago) to tackle the suggestions in this book. I am now.

I can't think of anything that's more inspiring or more helpful for getting the French look. I've read all of Anne Barone's books (helpful) and the tres terrible French Chic and this is absolute best..hands down.
The best thing I have come away with from this book is that you don't needs tons of money to create that French allure. The tips and tricks in the book anyone can do and will create that mystique you're after.

Today, I decided to mix navy and black together (as the book says "Very French") and I've gotten a few second glances. Shock les bourgeois...ooh I do feel so very French!

Get your hands on a copy of this book and don't let go!

Amusez-vous bien!

I, too, bought this book from Express way back when and read it religiously numerous times. As a high school girl who didn't want to look like a tart, Mme. Vienne's words of wisdom were just what I needed to create a classy style of my own.

Sadly, I donated it to the Goodwill or Friends of the Library a couple of years ago, during a momentary lapse of reason and good common sense. Guess I thought I didn't need it anymore. Boy, was I wrong!

Get it if you can, my dears, as it's a great read for the exact reasons the other reviewers love it. Thankfully, I still remember a lot of the advice.

I wish I still had mine!!!

If you're lucky enough to come across a copy of this funny little book, grab it immediately!
The illustrations & photographs are marvelous, darling! See Audrey Hepburn, the museums of Paris, street cafes & much, much more. The history is fascinating, the tips practical & usable.
And if you're into book "altering", this book is oh so chic!

I loved this book when I was in high school, and still remember (and use)some of the tips.

In Sussanne Alleyn's first Astride Ravel book, she creates a fantastic historical mystery novel. The historical accuracy is amazing, its the first fiction book I've read with a biblography. The mystery is great, the twists keep piling up. Its one of the best books I've read in a long time.

"Game of Patience" opens in 1796 post revolutionary Paris. A police "investigator" (as he prefers to be called, rather than an informer or a spy) by the name of Aristide Ravel is called upon to assist in solving a double murder case. The two victims, an extortionist named Saint-Ange, and a respectable young woman, Celie Montereau, at first appear to have no connection. As Ravel begins his investigation; searching for clues and interogating witnesses, he unravels a case far more complicated than what he originally suspected.

The synopsis I just gave barely touches upon the plot of the book, but as is the case with many mysteries, its tough to give an accurate overview without giving away the story. To avoid spoiling the entire book for any potential readers, we'll just leave it at that, and focus on my opinions of the work.

It took me a while to warm up to this story. The language is a bit rough for those of us who don't speak a word of French. Not that there is an overwhelming amount of French vocabulary included in the story, but rather its the foreign names and places that are involved in the plot that I got hung up on. It's hard (for me at least) to envision a place that I can't envision pronouncing accurately. Once I got past that however, I got sucked into a who done it murder mystery that had me pretty baffled until the end.

Alleyn is an expert on French history and culture, that much is blatantly obvious from reading this book. She weaves her knowledge in skillfully, and is able to transport her readers to another place and time as they read. One that to many readers, is completely new and alien, yet they will quickly begin to feel at home there, as I did. There are several characters that we become intimately acquainted with throughout the story; a few are quite endearing, while others are basically revolting.

Without giving much away, I do have to say that the ending of this book is one of the most satisfying endings I've read in a while. All loose ends are wrapped up into a tight bow, and all unanswered questions are at last explained. The reasoning and logic included at the end of the story make the entire book worthwhile...its a perfect ending to an all around good read.

Susanne Alleyn's GAME OF PATIENCE is just about the best historical
mystery I've read in a long time. It's a police procedural set in Paris,
just a few years after the Revolution. Aristides Ravel, the protagonist,
is an "agent of the police", a sort of investigator/police spy with a
troublesome conscience. Called in to help investigate the double
murder of a man and a young lady in the man's apartment, Ravel
stalks the decadent post-Revolution society, uncovering secret after
secret, passion, and revenge. The plot is marvelously devious, the
writing very good, and full of terrific detail about France between the
Terror and the rise of Napoleon. Alleyn really captures the atmosphere
of the time, as well as delivering a damn good mystery. I'm not a
particular fan of historical mysteries, but this one is as good as they
come. Time after time, it seems Ravel has the answers, only to discover
they only lead to more questions. The denouement is fantastic.

In 1796 Paris, undercover police spy, investigator Aristide Ravel and his superior Commissaire Brasseur, investigate the murders of property landlord Jean-Louis Saint-Ange and his former lover, Célie Montereau in a chic apartment owned by the former. Aristide quickly learns that no one misses Jean-Louis with many rejoicing at his death because he was a nasty sort blackmailing aristocrat; the blackguard even extorted money from Celie, who was his lover.

An interrogation of Célie's acrimonious friend Rosalie Clément leads Aristide to Philippe Aubry, a violent man who allegedly loved the female victims, but he has an airtight alibi. At the same time to his chagrin, Aristide begins to fall in love with Rosalie, though he has not totally ruled her out as abetting the killer by hiding much of what she knows from him and Brasseur. Aristide keeps digging as he knows Brasseur plans to send Rosalie ton a date with Madame Guillotine.

This is a tremendous post-revolution but pre Napoleon taut French police procedural starring a hero with a bothered conscience because he knows he sent innocent people to the guillotine. The who-done-it is cleverly devised so that the audience obtains a deep look at 1796 Paris yet never slows down the pace of the investigation. Still this tale belongs to Aristide, who believes his past prevents him from a future filled with love that is if he can figure out who his rancorous beloved protects. Fans will also want to read the delightful homage to Dickens, A FAR BETTER REST

Harriet Klausner

Few historical mystery novels I've read have been as painstakingly researched and yet as smoothly written as this gripping and suspenseful tale of 1790s Paris. The reader will find him/herself equally as engaged by the vivid portrayal of the times as the fast-paced and original plot. Game of Patience tries neither one's patience nor one's credulity, managing to keep the guessing game going up until its surprising yet logical ending. Love, murder, blackmail and cross-dressing.. what more could one want? A must-read for mystery lovers, Francophiles and anyone seeking to escape the ordinary for a few hundred pages.

France has done a great service to the scholarly community and the church by bringing together his scholarly expertise and many years of intense reflection and serious research on the Gospel according to Matthew. His mature thought on the first Gospel exhibits nothing less but passion, devotion, and the careful labor and reading of a serious student of the Gospels, Matthew in particular. This is a remarkable piece and great achievement!

I finished working through this commentary a few days ago and it is probably the finest commentary I have ever read. R.T. France here joins lucidity - and the occasional pastoral insight - to the fruit of a long career of Matthean scholarship, and the result is a book that can be read profitably from cover to cover and not just reserved for reference.

FRANCE'S APPROACH is to comment primarily on the text in its canonical form. Comparisons to the other Synoptics are made especially when differences throw significant light on Matthew's distinctive contributions. France tends to reserve his direct engagement with other scholars for the footnotes, which is an outgrowth of his strategy to write a commentary on Matthew rather than a kind of tedious commentary on commentaries.

THE INTRODUCTION is relatively brief (just 22 pages) and readers are referred to his earlier work "Matthew: Evangelist and Teacher" for extended discussion of issues such as authorship and distinctive Matthean themes. In the present work France prefers to discuss issues as they arise naturally ad loc. As it turns out, France is of the opinion that this Gospel was written prior to 70 AD and therefore within 40 years of the events it narrates.

This is the place where CRITICISM is usually leveled to show, among other things, that the reviewer was paying attention. France is quite well versed in the OT/Hebrew Bible, but even so I believe more could have been done with the OT background. And certainly in places more could have been said, for example on the significance of John's baptism or Jesus' cleansing of the temple. For the temptation account (Matthew 4), France provides an extended discussion on its possible significance, but in the end he seems to waver and cannot finally decide where to come down. Finally, at 22:30 France wants to identify "in the resurrection" with "in heaven," which seems to me a lapse.

Regarding ESCHATOLOGY, France provides an illuminating discussion of Jesus as the Son of Man at 8:20 and 10:23. Frances' view of the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 is particularly important in that he brackets 24:29-35 with what comes before it (on the destruction of the temple) rather than what comes after it (on the Parousia). His discussion here is quite careful and I think many will find it persuasive.

After more than 1000 packed pages, France leaves his readers wanting to continue exploring this magnificent Gospel. That is an achievement in itself!

This is the third important conservative commentary on Matthew to appear in the past decade; the other two being by Keener (1999) and Nolland (NIGTC, 2005). These three are massive commentaries (each one over 1000 pages), and taken together they provide the Christian community with excellent study tools for years to come.

Somewhat `earlier' volumes also of great importance include those by Carson (EBC, 1984), Blomberg (NAC, 1992), the two-volume set by Hagner (Word, 1993), and of course the three-volume work of Davies and Allison (ICC, 1988-1997). And France also penned the much shorter commentary on Matthew for the Tyndale series (TNTC, 1985).

France has been a leading Matthean scholar for decades now, and his newest effort is well worth the price of the book. Unlike many recent commentaries, it does not go for overkill in certain technical and critical matters. For example, the introduction is a mere 22 pages, and footnotes are kept to a minimum.

His NIGTC commentary on Mark was also in this (almost underkill) mode, and stood in stark contrast to the work of, say, Thiselton on 1 Corinthians in the same NIGTC series, which is inundated with countless footnotes, appendices, and so on (although many of us appreciate those sorts of commentaries as well; it is indeed a masterful work). It also stands in contrast to something like Keener's commentary on Matthew, with, for example, its 150-page bibliography of secondary sources!

Unlike these sorts of commentaries, France offers us a much more user-friendly version. As an example, France devotes just one paragraph to the question of authorship. He contends that authorship cannot be proven, but the gospel seems "to make someone like the apostle Matthew as likely a candidate as any". Nor does he spend much more time on the date of writing, but suggests that it was written in the sixties, while the temple was still standing, thus making better sense of the anti-temple theme found in the gospel.

Thus France has kept things relatively simple, so that the busy pastor or student can benefit, although he is obviously fully versed in the literature, and is able to deal with more technical matters when needed.

Many sections or pericopes could be mentioned. As to the so-called Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7), France mediates between various extremes, such as the view which says these are lofty ideals which no one can attain to, or that they are simply nice ideas that we should not be too bothered about. "The discourse is indeed intended as a guide to life, but only for those who are committed to the kingdom of heaven, and even they will always find that its reach exceeds their grasp."

Consider his treatment of Matt. 18 and the issue of discipline. France reminds us that this is not some "Manual of Discipline" but a guide for individual disciples on how to live in relation to one another. Indeed, there is no mention of church leaders or officials here. Self-discipline is the fundamental basis of discipline in the community.

Or take the Olivet Discourse. France has been arguing a particular point of view for some four decades now concerning Matt. 24-25 in general, and 24:29-31 in particular, which may be at odds with the views of many readers. Yet he makes his case concerning the end of the world and the parousia graciously and with an ear to what others are saying.

Issues of exegesis and interpretation always have the potential to result in conflict and controversy. But France seems adept at dealing with differing points of view in a firm yet gracious manner. One need not agree with every direction that he takes to appreciate the enormous amount of reflection and study that has gone into this commentary.

The book itself is quite well written; differing points of view are treated fairly; and the sense of what Matthew is trying to convey is clearly presented here. It is a tremendous work and deserves a wide reading.

This is the second final commentary to appear in the NICNT series. All we now await is the 2 Peter/Jude volume. For a series that first began in the late 1940s, it has taken some time to complete. But the wait has been well worth it, and this volume by France demonstrates why the NIC series is amongst the finest evangelical commentary sets around.

The long awaited volume on Matthew in the New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT) has finally arrived. This venerable commentary series was launched over a half century ago under the editorship of Ned Stonehouse (1947-1962), followed by that of F.F. Bruce (1962-1990), and is (hopefully) being brought to completion under Gordon Fee (1990 -). The series was launched with a team of international scholars sympathetic to the Reformed faith from the U.K., the U.S., South Africa, and the Netherlands. The commentary series has been around long enough for some of the original volumes to be replaced (e.g., Luke and Romans) and for revisions by the author of some of the originals (e.g., John and Acts).

In light of the long history of the NICNT, one may wonder why it took so long for the Matthew volume to see the light of day. From an examination of old dust covers, one can see that the Gospel of Matthew was originally assigned to Stonehouse, but his untimely death caused it to be switched to Robert Guelich. For some reason, it was then assigned to Herman Ridderbos who for whatever reason did not complete it either. In his preface to this volume, editor Gordon Fee tells us that during his tenure since 1990 he had contracts for the Matthew volume returned to him by two "very capable" younger scholars. Finally, Fee says that one day he asked a fellow member of the Committee on Bible Translation (NIV/TNIV), Dick France, if he would take the commentary project, and what we have before us is the result.

For those familiar with Gospel studies, France is no stranger, having written a smaller commentary on Matthew for the Tyndale NT series, a separate book on Matthew's teaching, and a commentary on Mark in the NICGT series. France has also contributed a number of scholarly articles on Matthew, Jesus, and the Synoptics. No one seems more qualified to step into the gap at this point, and France does not disappoint with this volume.

Sadly, most commentaries from scholars of this caliber end up being a series of technical word studies somehow strung together, or they become a commentary on other commentaries, or they suffer from the unholy union of both those characteristics. France avoids both the pedantry of the first method (the one totally word based) and the endless lists of different interpretations characteristic of the second method (those who comment on other commentaries). He does this with constant attention in every individual pericope to how this section fits into the larger section in which it appears and how all of this fits into Matthew's larger strategy. He avoids the danger of simply providing a digest of others' interpretations by referencing other authors in the footnotes and majoring on telling us what he believes Matthew is saying. No one can accuse him of being unaware of scholarly opinion on Matthew. For example, his Bibliography of books, commentaries, and journal articles covers thirty five pages! He interacts with other views but majors on a fresh interpretation of the text.

Another refreshing aspect of France's treatment is that he places his emphasis on discovering what the canonical text of Matthew is actually saying to us. He does not follow those endless bypaths of source and redaction critics which mar many of the modern commentaries on Matthew. One thinks of the otherwise magisterial work of Davies and Allison, filled with insights both exegetical and theological, only to be marred by statements that this or that word/phrase in the text is certainly the work of a redactor. How can we be assured of that when no text of Matthew indicates such redaction? France tells us what the text means and does not get bogged down on questions like whether this verse was in Q or M, or if it is the result of a final redaction of those two or more sources. This also makes the commentary a much more valuable help for the preacher and teacher of Matthew.

France explains briefly the two dominant views about the structure of Matthew's gospel (2, 3). The first is the fivefold division based on the repeated statement, "And Jesus finished the sayings," (7:28; 11:1; 13:53; 19:1; 26:1). The second is the three-fold division base on the repetition of "From that time Jesus began to . . ." (47; 16:21). He opts for seeing the similar way in which Matthew follows a geographical procession of Jesus, as is in Mark. Thus he suggests the following overall outline. I. Introducing the Messiah (1:1-4:11); II. Galilee: The Messiah Revealed in Word and Deed (4:12-16:20); III. From Galilee to Jerusalem: Messiah and His Followers Prepare for the Confrontatio0n (16:21-20:34). IV. Jerusalem: The Messiah in Confrontation with the Religious Authorities (21:1-25:46); V. Jerusalem: Messiah Rejected, Killed, and Vindicated (26:1-28:15); VI. Galilee: The Messianic Mission is Launched (28:16-20. Thus, to France, semantic content trumps literary features in determining a book's structure.

Whether or not France is on target in his overall design of Matthew, he is at his best when he is interpreting an individual pericope or even a set of related pericopes. For example, he displays his very capable interpretive skills in his deft handling of the five pericopes in the Matthew nativity account (1:18-2:23). He recognizes the controversial way in which Matthew employs the OT quotations there and arrives at very satisfying conclusions which maintain the hermeneutical sanity of Matthew over against his modern detractors and critics. At this point one might wish to explain specifically how he does that, but due to space constraints I leave that delight to be discovered by the reader, who I am sure will not be disappointed by France's insightful method and his conclusions.

It is my judgment that this commentary should take its place among the best that have been written on Matthew. Will it dislodge the commentaries by Davies/Allison and Luz that are at the top of scholarly commentaries on Matthew? Probably not. Does it compare favorably with the evangelical classics by Carson and Hagner? Much in every way! But it should be one of the first that we open to find out not only what is being said about Matthew, but to find out what Matthew is actually saying!

As a pastor who works through books of the bible for exegetical sermons, I find this commentary is not a disappointment. He does deal with the Greek text (which I love), so if you don't read Greek, you will find transliterated Greek mixed into the comments. Actual Greek fonts are used in the footnotes.

His summaries of views are succinct, with detail in some cases, but not too much information in trivial issues. I find this commentary gives a lot of exegetical insight to complement your own translation/exegetical efforts.

For example, France gives insights into John the Baptist in his section on Matthew 3. Although his cultural background insights do not rival Craig Keener's (get his commentary on Matthew too), his handling of how to interpret phrases and words is a direct aid to exegesis.

France gives insights from Qumran and Jewish inter-testamental literature as well as from pagan sources on the literary forms as well as structures within those forms. This commentary is very helpful, with a rapid fire of interesting ideas in condensed form for each section I have studied. It has quickly become my commentary of choice for Matthew.

Let me illustrate:

Matthew 5 is introduced with an overview on the Sermon on the Mount. He calls it a discourse on discipleship instead of the sermon on the mount. He says it reveals the Messiahs authority. As he gives a survey of the chapters, he then begins into chapter 5 little by little. As he starts into the Beattitudes, his little section on Makarios is indicative of the commentary so let me give a little of this for you to see what I mean.

He titles it "The Meaning of Makarios". Makarios is the transliteration of the Greek word that is often translated 'Blessed' or 'Happy'. France gives the Hebrew equivalent 'asre'. He points out that the Hebrew barak is not used, and that 'barak' is normally translated as blessed. As he digs into this term, it becomes clear that there is no English word that equivocates 'Makarios' and so he lands on 'Happy' without the psychological sense of feeling good. It means to be brought to a good place in some cases. The whole page of information is accurate, condensed with good, usable information AND helps the Non Greek /Non-Hebrew reader catch on to the issue with this crucial word in perhaps the most famous part of Matthew. When he is done with this, he then moves on to the structure of the beatitudes and does similar things. Then he compares Matthew's beatitudes to Luke's. Then he gives the OT background elements for the beatitudes. He adds to that the Eschatological Character of the Promises. Each of these is only about 3/4 of a page of information. But if you are preaching on the beatitudes, it is worth reading through to sharpen your mind on the setting and language issues involved with them.
Dr. France is to be congratulated for giving the Christian community a wonderful tool for preaching and teaching the gospel of Matthew.

I heartily recommend this commentary for Matthew study, research and preaching. Check out Keener on Matthew as well. It's a different kind of commentary, and is extremely useful as well.