Bonjour! So, you’ve started watching some French movies & TV shows. You’re listening to French podcasts and following accounts on social media. But, what about reading ( 🇫🇷 la lecture)? Whether you’re looking to learn more about French cuisine, the Parisian lifestyle, or what it’s like to make the leap and move to France, these 7 livres (books) are wonderful resources that will help you dive deeper into French language & culture!
The French Ingredient: Making A Life in Paris One Lesson at a Time by Jane BertchGenre: un mémoire / a memoir In this inspiring memoir, author Jane Bertch shares her story of building a new life in Paris—and the adventures and challenges of opening her renowned cooking school, La Cuisine. Through a series of personal anecdotes and lessons, she details how she navigated integrating into French culture, from learning French and understanding local customs to pursuing her ultimate passion in life: cooking. This book offers fascinating insights into the expat life, France’s myriad culinary delights, and the joys of following your dreams. |
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Fixing France: How to Repair a Broken Republic by Nabila RamdaniGenre: société & politique / society & politics French-Algerian journalist Nabila Ramdani presents a fresh perspective on issues in contemporary France with this thought-provoking read. This critical analysis addresses the socio-political and economic challenges the country faces, such as inequality, immigration, secularism, and government. She proposes solutions to reform and revitalize France’s beloved institutions, improve social cohesion, and restore France’s standing on the world stage. Through her insights, Ramdani offers an inspiring, optimistic viewpoint about France’s future. |
The New Paris: The People, Places & Ideas Fueling a Movement by Lindsey TramutaGenre: culture, société & guide de Paris / culture, society & Paris guide American-born journalist and parisienne Lindsey Tramuta celebrates Paris’s evolving cultural landscape in this beautiful book. Through inspiring stories, fascinating profiles, and vibrant photographs, she paints a picture of the city’s contemporary spirit, highlighting innovations in food, design, and lifestyle. Profiles of influential Parisians and lesser-known neighborhoods showcase the fresh, creative energy pulsing through the city. For anyone looking for a modern perspective on Paris, this book is for you. |
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The New Parisienne: The Women & Ideas Shaping Paris by Lindsey Tramuta
Genre: culture & société / culture & society
In a follow-up to The New Paris, journalist Lindsey Tramuta shifts her focus to the women of the City of Light, debunking stereotypes and showcasing the diverse voices of activities, creators, and visionaries. Through individual profiles, readers uncover the stories of these diverse women who embody the modernity of Paris—learning how each of them impacts the city’s cultural and social landscape. If you’re interested in a new take on what it means to be a Parisian woman in the 21st century, this volume is a must-have addition to your bookshelf.
L’Appart: The Delights and Disasters of Making My Paris Home by David LebovitzGenre: un mémoire et un livre de cuisine / a memoir and cookbook American chef and cookbook author David Lebovitz chronicles the highs and lows of buying and renovating an apartment in Paris. From navigating the French real estate landscape, dealing with contractors, and encountering some misadventures along the way, this memoir is a candid, entertaining story of what it’s really like to create a home in Paris, capturing both the frustrations and joys throughout the process. Recipes inspired by Lebovitz’s Parisian life complete the book. |
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When in French: Love in a Second Language by Lauren CollinsGenre: un mémoire / a memoir Through humor, personal insights, and astute cultural observations, American journalist Lauren Collins explores the complexities and challenges of learning French after falling in love and making a life with a Frenchman. Throughout this engaging memoir, she touches on the impact of language on identity, communication, and relationships—showing how learning a new language can impact one’s understanding of love, and ultimately, their sense of self. |
Let’s Eat Paris! The Essential Guide to the World’s Most Famous Food City by François-Régis GaudryGenre: littérature culinaire / culinary literature This comprehensive guide for food lovers presents detailed recommendations for the best places to eat in Paris, from renowned restaurants to hidden gems. Covering traditional French cuisine, modern dining, and street food, it also provides insights into the history and culture of Parisian gastronomy along with practical tips for navigating the city's vibrant food scene. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide aims to enhance your gastronomic journey through the City of Light. |
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Bonne lecture (happy reading)!
—Cécilia & the Hello French team
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