Best Books About France

Set against the backdrop of World War II, this beautiful and moving novel follows the intertwined lives of a blind French girl and a German boy. When Marie-Laure and her father must flee Paris for the walled citadel of Saint-Malo, they carry with them a valuable and dangerous jewel from the Museum of Natural History. Meanwhile, Werner Pfennig grows up enchanted by a radio he finds in a mining town in Germany, and becomes enlisted to track down the resistance. As their paths converge, they must try to be good to each other in the midst of the devastation of war. With stunning detail and captivating prose, this National Book Award finalist is a must-read for lovers of historical fiction.

Discover the inspiring story of a woman who transformed the way we think about food in America. Follow Julia Child's journey as she arrives in France knowing nothing about the country or its cuisine, but dives headfirst into the culture, taking classes at the Cordon Bleu and shopping at local markets. Her passion for cooking and teaching ignites, leading to the creation of her now-famous cookbook and TV show. This unforgettable memoir captures the spirit that made Julia one of America's most beloved personalities.

Escape to the idyllic countryside of the Lubéron with this heartwarming account of one couple's journey to fulfill their dreams. Follow along as they settle into a charming 200-year-old stone farmhouse and discover the joys of goat racing, indulge in regional cuisine, and experience the beauty of the changing seasons. A Year in Provence is a delightful escape into the simple pleasures of Provençal life.

The Elegance of the Hedgehog invites readers into the lives of the inconspicuous inhabitants of an elegant Parisian building. Follow Renée, a cultured and intelligent concierge, and Paloma, a talented but misunderstood twelve-year-old, as they hide their true selves from a world that doesn't appreciate them. Their lives intertwine with the arrival of a wealthy Japanese man, who sees through their disguises and helps them discover their kindred spirits. This novel celebrates the quiet victories of those often overlooked.

Follow the story of Jean Valjean, an escaped convict determined to live an honest life in a community that constantly threatens to reveal his criminal past. Victor Hugo's tale of injustice, heroism, and love illustrates the struggles of redemption and sacrifice, as Valjean fights to protect the daughter of a poverty-stricken prostitute. But as Inspector Javert's relentless pursuit jeopardizes his newfound freedom, Valjean must decide how far he's willing to go to keep his promises.

This epic novel by a grand master of historical fiction takes readers on a thrilling journey through the magnificent city of Paris. From noble families to humble revolutionaries, the characters' stories of self-discovery and long-kept secrets unfold throughout the city's rich history. Impeccably researched and narrated, this captivating book brings the sights and sounds of the City of Light to brilliant life.

This historical novel is a masterpiece that captures the human drama of life and death in occupied France during World War II. The first two parts of a planned five-part epic were written by the highly successful writer, Irene Nemirovsky, who was herself a Jew and a victim of the Holocaust. The first part depicts the chaos of the massive exodus from Paris on the eve of Nazi invasion, while the second part portrays the complex interactions between German soldiers and the villagers they occupy. Suite Française is a profound and moving work of art that delves into the essence of humanity.

Discover the secrets of French longevity and economic power in this fascinating exploration of French culture. Despite smoking, drinking and eating more than any other nation, the French are healthier and wealthier than Americans. Find out why as Nadeau and Barlow delve into the heart, mind, and soul of France, exploring everything from their ideas about land and privacy to their elite education and street protests. Gain a complete picture of French society and what makes it so unique.

Experience the thrilling tale of Edmond Dantès, a dashing young hero who is betrayed by his enemies and thrown into a secret dungeon. Trapped in a dank prison cell for years, he miraculously escapes and seeks revenge. Set against the turbulent years of the Napoleonic era, this widely read romantic novel by Alexandre Dumas paints a dazzling, exuberant vision of France that has become immortal. Abridged by Lowell Blair for an engaging and concise read.

Set in WWII France, The Nightingale follows the stories of two sisters who embark on their own dangerous paths towards survival, love, and freedom in German-occupied, war-torn France. Vianne and Isabelle's lives take different turns during the war, but both must make impossible choices to stay alive. Kristin Hannah's heartbreakingly beautiful novel illuminates the rarely seen stories of women's war and celebrates the resilience and durability of the human spirit. It's a novel for everyone, a must-read for a lifetime.