5 must-read books if you are living in Paris

1. A Year in the Merde by Stephen Clarke.

This was the first book I read when I moved to France and to this day it remains one of my favourites. The book explores the cultural differences between Britain and France and broaches the subject of how the French really feel about their very own Parisians. It’s full of hints and tips for anyone new to Paris making it a must-read for anyone starting off their cheese and wine journey in this wonderful city.

2. The Most Beautiful Walk in the World: A Pedestrian in Paris by John Baxter.

John Baxter never really chose to become a tour guide, it just kind of happened. He became a literary walking tour guide many years ago and to this day still holds tours in Paris. In his book he takes you on the most beautiful walks this city has to offer and tells stories of Picasso, Hemingway, Fitzgerald and James Joyce. If you have ever felt your love for Paris wavering, Baxter will help you fall in love with it all over again. 

3. Almost French by Sarah Turnbull.

When a chance meeting with a handsome Frenchman leads to a random, unplanned trip to Paris, Sarah discovers a whole new side of both herself and the city of Paris. The book follows Sarah on her romantic and sometimes bumpy journey as she adjusts to the Parisian lifestyle and most challenging of all, the French language. This book is for all the romantics out there who maybe, deep down, wouldn’t mind finding a Frenchman of their own.

4. Paris Revealed by Stephen Clarke. 

Another Stephen Clarke recommendation but this time it’s a non-fiction. Paris Revealed is an exceptional book which recounts Paris’ colourful history. Best of all, it doesn’t feel like a history book! Stephen Clarke has managed to tell the story of this amazing city in both an enjoyable and fun way, meaning that you will never get bored. You’ll find that you effortlessly remember the facts you read because the book is so interesting. Do you know the history or your newly adopted city? You should!

5. The Sweet Life in Paris by David Lebovitz.

This quirky little book should be your pocket guide if you like to cook. The Sweet Life in Paris is a mixture of stories and recipes from the famous American pastry chef David Lebovitz. Like many of the other books, David writes about adjusting to life in this remarkable city and how, as most of us know, there are some trials and tribulations at the beginning. He also includes a number of great reviews for places in Paris making this original book an absolute must-read!