A Year in Provence (abridged)

Rating:
Summary: Monsieur Mayle, tu es un tresor!
Review: This is a truly enjoyable book of memoirs from Peter and Annie Mayle's first year in Provence. As others before me, I felt immediately compelled to pack my suitcase and set out on my own adventure in Provence! This book provides an intimate look into their experiences in day-to-day living in this lovely region in France, and it is nothing but either pure enchantment or true comedy from the quirky Provencaux to their former English countrymen. Written with dry British wit, it is very accessible and augmented throughout with French phrases that can be understood contextually for those who are not familiar with the French language. I highly recommend this book for francophiles, anglophiles, and any who are interested in starting a new adventure in a foreign country!

Rating:
Summary: FUN!
Review: Fun AND FUNNY! It was like going on vacation... with someone else's money! :-)

Rating:
Summary: funny and delightful
Review: In A Year in Provence, Peter Mayle descibes his and his wife's first year living in Provence as British expatriats. The book is divided into twelve chapters, one for each month, and takes us through the Mayles adjusting to life in France and getting their old farmhouse renovated. Mayle writes with self-deprecating wit and genuine pleasure for his new home. He is clearly bemused and captivated by his new friends. For example, before the cherry harvest (his land has 30 cherry trees), natives warn him repeatedly of the coming migrant "gypsies" who officially come to harvest the cherries but also have a habit of thievery. The stories are so overblown, that Mayle can't wait to meet these horrible gypsies; the results are hilarious. He and his wife also learn to contend with the Mistral, a harsh wind coming from Siberia, which their plumber informs them is getting stronger year by year, which can only mean that somewhere between Provence and Siberia the earth is getting flatter. In addition to all the home repairs are descriptions of excellent meals in perfect little restaurants around Provence. All is written with breezy good humor and infectious delight for both Provence and the Provenceaux.

Rating:
Summary: Worth a read
Review: An account of one man's move to Provence and his first year there. The book deals with mundane issues - building a house, meeting neighbors, and eating - but it is well written and successfully interests the reader in the small details of his life.