Review

“In this beautiful collection, women share their experiences firsthand, reflecting on the ways France’s unique culture has enriched and enchanted their lives.”

Product Description

Legendary for fabulous food, persistent men, and a lyrical language, Italy has inspired many great love affairs?with the country itself. From the notorious occupants and cuisine of Sicily, to the ancient marvels of Rome, to the couture of Milan, women throughout the ages have invented and reinvented adventure in this diverse and voluptuous land. In this thrilling and layered new collection, women from Barbara Grizzuti Harrison to the neo-Tuscan Frances Mayes to Mary Simetti Taylor explore and describe in loving prose individual infatuations with a land that is both complicated by and adored for a rich tradition.

Product Description

France has long captured the imagination of Americans. For some women, a love of France and all things French started when they were schoolgirls tackling one of the most seductive of tongues. For others, the attraction came later when, drawn to what many consider the world’s most exalted culture, they made summer trips or even moved there, learning much about this beguiling country along the way. In this beautiful collection, two dozen women describe the country they love and why they fell under its spell. Women explore their firsthand experiences with the people, landscape, flavors, history, art, culture, and character of this enchanted land. Featuring a delightful mix of perspectives-from M.F.K. Fisher’s first days in Dijon and Janet Flanner’s account of post-War Paris to the contemporary prose of Amanda Hesser-this book is sure to strike a chord with Francophiles everywhere.