... by Piu Eatwell. This is a book that I've had on my shelves for quite a while, and I thought it was about time it moved onto my blog! Read on ...
According to the cover, this book is a 'curious cabinet of French wonders.' When you look inside and begin reading the introduction, you will see that the book is further described as 'themed trivia'. Sorry, but I have to disagree with that! Yes, it is a book about France, the culture and the French. So, I accept that the 'theme' bit is totally accurate. But 'trivia'? No, I can't let that pass.
This little book is an examination of the odd little things that I have observed and wondered about as I've been travelling the length and breadth of the country over many years. So, it is useful that the book is set out in the same format as a dictionary, beginning at A, and working its way through to Z, at the end. Once you reach the back of the book, there's a helpful set of notes and a bibliography of you want to read more on any one of the many subjects examined in the text.
I found the various trips into history, culture, food, drink and customs absolutely fascinating. Beginning with 'A is for Absinthe' and also providing a recipe for the said lethal drink, I was immediately perturbed about the rest of the content. But my fears quickly disappeared as I read about elephants being banned from the beach in Granville and feral kangaroos in a forest west of Paris. Now I can personally testify to elephants on the Allier - I was there and I saw them! You can read that post Here if you wish to check it out. As you move through the alphabet, you come across fascinating little nuggets of information, such as the guillotine being named after an 18th-century opponent of capital punishment. You must also make sure you check out the sections on cheese and coffee. You will be surprised by the long-held myths that the author's research busts. And as for the table on coffee drinking, France is not where you think it should be, and the UK doesn't even get a mention!
This book is a delightful expose of the many eccentricities that make France and the French what and who they are. The anecdotes and conveyed with wit and intelligence, and I can honestly say that I could not put this book down once I had opened it. I also found myself nodding enthusiastically at some sections as I recalled memories from my travels and the places I've visited. A book not to be missed by anyone who has a genuine interest in the country and its people.




