BOOK: Almost French

AUTHOR: Sarah Turnbull

SUMMARY: Sarah Turnbull has written this autobiographical story of an expatriate living in Paris. Turnbull felt that there was a "niche for a fun, readable story that also offers insights and some analysis into this country and culture." Her story is an intimate approach to France not to her relationship with her future husband. Her journalistic style offers some insights into a country and culture that is different from hers as well as ours. She struggles with her Australian identity and her sense of belonging as many expats do in their adopted country. She describes the hardships of settling into this city that is infamously chilly to outsiders. Having an understanding French mate made all the difference in making these adjustments for Sarah. At the end of the book she readily admits that she has adopted some French customs but " doesn't feel French and never will". Surviving dinner parties, getting a small dog and even finding work in the fashion industry give the reader engaging and endearing insights and encourage cross-cultural communication. Her observational humor is upbeat, with accounts of two French staples, food and fashion. A birthday party for 80 and an interview with Christain Lacroix will shed light on both.

An Australian journalist, Sarah took a year off to travel. By chance she met Frederic in Bucharest and accepts his invitation to visit him in Paris. She readily admits that Paris had not been part of her travel plan. Her story resonates the "fish out of water" theme but with style, grace and humor. Learning the language, making friends, earning a living and interacting with Fred's family all prove to be a challenge to Sarah. These interesting anecdotes show us her determination to become a resident of Paris as opposed to a tourist. When she spends an obscene amount of money on a "toilettage" for her dog, Maddie, we know she has made some concessions to Paris. Living versus visiting a culture proved frustrating, adventurous and exciting to this lady making a commitment to a long-term relationship. These frustrations push her on to find solutions. She is living in Paris by choice and she loves it. After the story of their wedding she says," A new adventure is just beginning". What a delightful end to a charming read.

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