What do you think?
Rate this book
Paris Syndrome
On the morning of her fifth birthday, Miki Suzuki’s aged grandfather gave her an unusual gift – the fragment of a story. The tale told of a magical realm where all the women were beautiful, dressed in the finest gowns, and where the men had the looks of movie stars. The trees were covered in ivory-white blossom all year round, and everyone was joyful and proud. This place, young Miki learned, was a city in far off Europe – a city called Paris.
The story took seed in Miki’s mind and, over twenty years, she became quite obsessed with the French capital. Having studied its history, language, and traditions, she vowed that one day she would venture there.
Winning a competition at her work, where she sold low-grade beauty products door-to-door, Miki embarked on the journey of a lifetime to her dream destination.
Feverishly excited, and exhausted after a long flight, she hit the ground running, in her desperation to see every last tourist sight in town. But, as the others in the tour group looked on in horror, the telltale signs of a rare condition began to manifest themselves – a condition known as ‘Paris Syndrome’.
Made crazed by a stream of unfavourable events, Miki went on a riotous rampage, which ended in her mooning the sales clerk in Louis Vuitton – an assault that gripped the French nation. And so began the treatment in the most bizarre of clinics – a refuge for fellow sufferers of Paris Syndrome. All this set against a backdrop of vigilante groups, trade wars, bounty hunters, and true love.
Both hilarious and toe-cringing, Miki Suzuki’s psychological rollercoaster ride gets under the skin like nothing else, as the novel explores the real condition that afflicts dozens of Japanese tourists each year.
The story took seed in Miki’s mind and, over twenty years, she became quite obsessed with the French capital. Having studied its history, language, and traditions, she vowed that one day she would venture there.
Winning a competition at her work, where she sold low-grade beauty products door-to-door, Miki embarked on the journey of a lifetime to her dream destination.
Feverishly excited, and exhausted after a long flight, she hit the ground running, in her desperation to see every last tourist sight in town. But, as the others in the tour group looked on in horror, the telltale signs of a rare condition began to manifest themselves – a condition known as ‘Paris Syndrome’.
Made crazed by a stream of unfavourable events, Miki went on a riotous rampage, which ended in her mooning the sales clerk in Louis Vuitton – an assault that gripped the French nation. And so began the treatment in the most bizarre of clinics – a refuge for fellow sufferers of Paris Syndrome. All this set against a backdrop of vigilante groups, trade wars, bounty hunters, and true love.
Both hilarious and toe-cringing, Miki Suzuki’s psychological rollercoaster ride gets under the skin like nothing else, as the novel explores the real condition that afflicts dozens of Japanese tourists each year.
272 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
About the author
Tahir Shah
166 books638 followersTahir Shah was born in London, and raised primarily at the family’s home, Langton House, in the English countryside – where founder of the Boy Scouts, Lord Baden Powell was also brought up.
Along with his twin and elder sisters, Tahir was continually coaxed to regard the world around him through Oriental eyes. This included being exposed from early childhood to Eastern stories, and to the back-to-front humour of the wise fool, Nasrudin.
Having studied at a leading public school, Bryanston, Tahir took a degree in International Relations, his particular interest being in African dictatorships of the mid-1980s. His research in this area led him to travel alone through a wide number of failing African states, including Uganda, Sierra Leone, and Zaire.
After university, Tahir embarked on a plethora of widespread travels through the Indian subcontinent, Latin America, and Africa, drawing them together in his first travelogue, Beyond the Devil’s Teeth. In the years that followed, he published more than a dozen works of travel. These quests – for lost cities, treasure, Indian magic, and for the secrets of the so-called Birdmen of Peru – led to what is surely one of the most extraordinary bodies of travel work ever published.
In the early 2000s, with two small children, Tahir moved his young family from an apartment in London’s East End to a supposedly haunted mansion in the middle of a Casablanca shantytown. The tale of the adventure was published in his bestselling book, The Caliph’s House.
In recent years, Tahir Shah has released a cornucopia of work, embracing travel, fiction, and literary criticism. He has also made documentaries for National Geographic TV and the History Channel, and published hundreds of articles in leading magazines, newspapers, and journals. His oeuvre is regarded as exceptionally original and, as an author, he is considered as a champion of the new face of publishing.
www.tahirshah.com
www.twitter.com/humanstew
www.facebook.com/TahirShahAuthor
http://www.youtube.com/user/tahirshah999
www.pinterest.com/tahirshah
Along with his twin and elder sisters, Tahir was continually coaxed to regard the world around him through Oriental eyes. This included being exposed from early childhood to Eastern stories, and to the back-to-front humour of the wise fool, Nasrudin.
Having studied at a leading public school, Bryanston, Tahir took a degree in International Relations, his particular interest being in African dictatorships of the mid-1980s. His research in this area led him to travel alone through a wide number of failing African states, including Uganda, Sierra Leone, and Zaire.
After university, Tahir embarked on a plethora of widespread travels through the Indian subcontinent, Latin America, and Africa, drawing them together in his first travelogue, Beyond the Devil’s Teeth. In the years that followed, he published more than a dozen works of travel. These quests – for lost cities, treasure, Indian magic, and for the secrets of the so-called Birdmen of Peru – led to what is surely one of the most extraordinary bodies of travel work ever published.
In the early 2000s, with two small children, Tahir moved his young family from an apartment in London’s East End to a supposedly haunted mansion in the middle of a Casablanca shantytown. The tale of the adventure was published in his bestselling book, The Caliph’s House.
In recent years, Tahir Shah has released a cornucopia of work, embracing travel, fiction, and literary criticism. He has also made documentaries for National Geographic TV and the History Channel, and published hundreds of articles in leading magazines, newspapers, and journals. His oeuvre is regarded as exceptionally original and, as an author, he is considered as a champion of the new face of publishing.
www.tahirshah.com
www.twitter.com/humanstew
www.facebook.com/TahirShahAuthor
http://www.youtube.com/user/tahirshah999
www.pinterest.com/tahirshah
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 2, 2016
Хич не обичам да се разочаровам от прехвалени писатели, но случаят с Тахир Шах е точно такъв. Малоумна история, написана с нарочно гротесково преувеличение на случките и двуизмерни истерични герои, люшкащи се от едно крайно състояние към друго по-бързо от метроном на стероиди.
Изобщо няма да навлизам в историята, не си заслужава. Но ще споделя нещо, което стопи и без това минималното ми удоволствие от прочита - абсолютно непрофесионалната работа по книгата. Освен преводът, който беше изпълнен с някои озадачаващи изрази като "поеха дъх през задните си зъби" (след четвъртия път, в който беше употребен, престанах да броя) и "затича се към социалните мрежи" (интересно дали се е гмурнал направо в лаптопа си?), коректорската работа изцяло липсваше. Нямаше две еднакви кавички, а употребата на "които" вместо "който" направо ме изправяше на нокти. Не знам защо и до ден-днешен се издават книги в този вид, но дори тъповата история като "Парижки синдром" не заслужава подобно отношение от издателите си.
Изобщо няма да навлизам в историята, не си заслужава. Но ще споделя нещо, което стопи и без това минималното ми удоволствие от прочита - абсолютно непрофесионалната работа по книгата. Освен преводът, който беше изпълнен с някои озадачаващи изрази като "поеха дъх през задните си зъби" (след четвъртия път, в който беше употребен, престанах да броя) и "затича се към социалните мрежи" (интересно дали се е гмурнал направо в лаптопа си?), коректорската работа изцяло липсваше. Нямаше две еднакви кавички, а употребата на "които" вместо "който" направо ме изправяше на нокти. Не знам защо и до ден-днешен се издават книги в този вид, но дори тъповата история като "Парижки синдром" не заслужава подобно отношение от издателите си.
May 18, 2014
Unputdownable & Hillarious. Tragic, mad & hopeful. An important book!
A young Japanese woman, Miki Suzuki, is obsessed with Paris. When she finally gets a chance to visit, the mismatch between her fantasy and the reality drives her mad. She contracts ‘The Paris Syndrome’, a little known but all too real psychological problem. A contemporary folk tale set in Eastern and Western hemispheres of the Land of Fools, The Paris Syndrome is a slapstick romp through cross-cultural madness, crazy “solutions” and non-rational possibilities. I loved this book!!!
A young Japanese woman, Miki Suzuki, is obsessed with Paris. When she finally gets a chance to visit, the mismatch between her fantasy and the reality drives her mad. She contracts ‘The Paris Syndrome’, a little known but all too real psychological problem. A contemporary folk tale set in Eastern and Western hemispheres of the Land of Fools, The Paris Syndrome is a slapstick romp through cross-cultural madness, crazy “solutions” and non-rational possibilities. I loved this book!!!
May 15, 2014
A tale of innocent but un-realistic expectation, the sort that may lead to nervous breakdown and national hysteria! Relief, redoubt, and rescue, from which, can only be secured by love. A rollicking ride!
June 17, 2015
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review
Plot/Story:
This is my second book I’ve read by Tahir Shah and he keeps the same style of adventure here as well and I feel so lucky to have received this book. The story is bit mad like as a lot happens to Miki (the main character) and all at once. After a story her grandfather told her, she becomes obsessed about Paris and tries to get there in every way she can. I love how the author weave the story and the fantasy of Paris build up in Miki and in us. He lures us into the story with bits of fantasy about the beautiful Paris, but when she finally get there, after a lot of struggles and tears, the reality of her wonderful and magical city shatters her totally (I want to say so much here… but you must read it to know more). The author shows us so well what can happen when your dreams meet reality. I love how the madness consumes the main character and how crazy it can get. I can relate to that a lot! It’s a drama and comedy all in one :)
Characters:
Miki is a very strong, intelligent and very loyal friend. She has so much love for her grandfather and she never gives up, no matter how tough is the struggle or how mad things become for her.
Romance/Kills:
Her true love and obsession is Paris!
Writing:
I love the author’s writing style so much. The way he show us the details, the way he tackles real things in way we can all relate to (like the Paris Syndrome) and the overall emotions are so upfront, but not overbearing. There is a very dark element in the story as Miki finally arrives to Paris, but I liked it a lot.
Beginning:
The author shows us the reality of Miki (the main character) and the Japanese culture, so well, that let us into that culture very easily as well. At the start of the story, we see the beautiful Miki and her friend, how they live and Miki’s hard job. We see the memory of her grandfather’s stories of this beautiful city and his adventures in Paris.
Ending:
The story ended with a promise.
Cover Art:
The cover art is beautiful and I love the vintage feel to it.
Blurb:
The blurb showcases the book’s plot perfectly and with the hint of the author good humor.
You can also read this review at Goodreads and Amazon.
Other Stuff
Opening Line: “On the morning of her fifth birthday, Miki Suzuki sat perched on her grandfather’s knee, at the edge of the porch in the family home, a short distance from Sendai.”
Highlights: It is a fast pace story, wonderful details and plot well thought off. I enjoyed every second of reading this book and I love this author writing style so much.
Lowlights: None!
Final Thoughts: I highly recommend this book to everyone :)
Read the original review at: The Reading Bud
Review
Plot/Story:
This is my second book I’ve read by Tahir Shah and he keeps the same style of adventure here as well and I feel so lucky to have received this book. The story is bit mad like as a lot happens to Miki (the main character) and all at once. After a story her grandfather told her, she becomes obsessed about Paris and tries to get there in every way she can. I love how the author weave the story and the fantasy of Paris build up in Miki and in us. He lures us into the story with bits of fantasy about the beautiful Paris, but when she finally get there, after a lot of struggles and tears, the reality of her wonderful and magical city shatters her totally (I want to say so much here… but you must read it to know more). The author shows us so well what can happen when your dreams meet reality. I love how the madness consumes the main character and how crazy it can get. I can relate to that a lot! It’s a drama and comedy all in one :)
Characters:
Miki is a very strong, intelligent and very loyal friend. She has so much love for her grandfather and she never gives up, no matter how tough is the struggle or how mad things become for her.
Romance/Kills:
Her true love and obsession is Paris!
Writing:
I love the author’s writing style so much. The way he show us the details, the way he tackles real things in way we can all relate to (like the Paris Syndrome) and the overall emotions are so upfront, but not overbearing. There is a very dark element in the story as Miki finally arrives to Paris, but I liked it a lot.
Beginning:
The author shows us the reality of Miki (the main character) and the Japanese culture, so well, that let us into that culture very easily as well. At the start of the story, we see the beautiful Miki and her friend, how they live and Miki’s hard job. We see the memory of her grandfather’s stories of this beautiful city and his adventures in Paris.
Ending:
The story ended with a promise.
Cover Art:
The cover art is beautiful and I love the vintage feel to it.
Blurb:
The blurb showcases the book’s plot perfectly and with the hint of the author good humor.
You can also read this review at Goodreads and Amazon.
Other Stuff
Opening Line: “On the morning of her fifth birthday, Miki Suzuki sat perched on her grandfather’s knee, at the edge of the porch in the family home, a short distance from Sendai.”
Highlights: It is a fast pace story, wonderful details and plot well thought off. I enjoyed every second of reading this book and I love this author writing style so much.
Lowlights: None!
Final Thoughts: I highly recommend this book to everyone :)
Read the original review at: The Reading Bud
June 30, 2014
I find Tahir Shah's work uniquely satisfying, and 'Paris Syndrome' is no exception. Supremely entertaining, it also stretches your mind.
This is a book which reminds us of how little we really understand about the human psyche. What Tahir Shah is exploring through the experiences of unassuming disillusioned Miki Suzuki is spirit possession. When the young Japanese woman is brought to Dr Mesmer's asylum, his gentle understanding probing tells him that she is under the control of one of the incomplete spirits known in the East as jinn. Miki's babblings are not random. They are the utterances of an intelligent unconscious entity who is capable of shapeshifting from a princess to a rock, and who can tune in to the thoughts of others around her. It is her jinn which has brought Miki to Paris, knowing that this is where her destiny lies. In Dr Mesmer's refuge she and the other patients are able to regain normality. But Miki is not content with being normal. In Paris she has met and spoken to Compte Hugo de Montfried, and has totally lost her heart to him. She is determined to remain in the city of love whatever the consequences, and in our crazy media-manipulated world, now polarised for and against Miki Suzuki, the consequences are... well... crazy.
We live in a universe where most of the matter (the 'dark' matter) is beyond detection by our senses and still completely inaccessible to science. I think this fascinating book deserves to be read with an open mind.
This is a book which reminds us of how little we really understand about the human psyche. What Tahir Shah is exploring through the experiences of unassuming disillusioned Miki Suzuki is spirit possession. When the young Japanese woman is brought to Dr Mesmer's asylum, his gentle understanding probing tells him that she is under the control of one of the incomplete spirits known in the East as jinn. Miki's babblings are not random. They are the utterances of an intelligent unconscious entity who is capable of shapeshifting from a princess to a rock, and who can tune in to the thoughts of others around her. It is her jinn which has brought Miki to Paris, knowing that this is where her destiny lies. In Dr Mesmer's refuge she and the other patients are able to regain normality. But Miki is not content with being normal. In Paris she has met and spoken to Compte Hugo de Montfried, and has totally lost her heart to him. She is determined to remain in the city of love whatever the consequences, and in our crazy media-manipulated world, now polarised for and against Miki Suzuki, the consequences are... well... crazy.
We live in a universe where most of the matter (the 'dark' matter) is beyond detection by our senses and still completely inaccessible to science. I think this fascinating book deserves to be read with an open mind.
January 9, 2015
When Miki was a little girl her 'Ojichan' (Grandfather) told her about the most magical city in the world. A City of Love, kindness, and beauty. Miki fell in love with her Ojichan's description of Paris at a young age. She obsessed with the image of Paris. She prepared for the day that she would travel there. All she wanted was to enjoy Paris with her Grandfather. Ojichan was getting older and his health was failing. Miki promised her Ojichan that she would find a way to get to paris, to get him the one item he was never able to purchase on his trip there. Nothing goes as planned for Miki though. She may have made it to Paris but it wasn't the Paris she imagined.
I originally took this book for review because I had read a bit about the syndrome and my sister is currently studying in Paris. My sister has even commented about how different Paris is from how she imagined. Paris Syndrome was a very interesting read. I think it would make a wonderful anime. As an anime fan, I would watch the series. Tahir Shah did a terrific job bringing Miki's story alive. Her story lead me to read more into the syndrome - I had previously read about it, but I didn't know much. It's very shocking. I believe the Syndrome is well represented in the book. It's estimated that 20 Japanese tourist in Paris get it every year. The tourists have a mental breakdown because Paris isn't what they expected. I can't imagine being so obsessed with a culture. I'll attached a few links about 'Paris Syndrome' below. 4/5
Paris Syndrome Wiki
Paris Syndrome BBC Story
I originally took this book for review because I had read a bit about the syndrome and my sister is currently studying in Paris. My sister has even commented about how different Paris is from how she imagined. Paris Syndrome was a very interesting read. I think it would make a wonderful anime. As an anime fan, I would watch the series. Tahir Shah did a terrific job bringing Miki's story alive. Her story lead me to read more into the syndrome - I had previously read about it, but I didn't know much. It's very shocking. I believe the Syndrome is well represented in the book. It's estimated that 20 Japanese tourist in Paris get it every year. The tourists have a mental breakdown because Paris isn't what they expected. I can't imagine being so obsessed with a culture. I'll attached a few links about 'Paris Syndrome' below. 4/5
Paris Syndrome Wiki
Paris Syndrome BBC Story
June 13, 2018
A wonderful book. What happens when reality meets dreams, and how mad one is, in this dream world, and then even madder, when the dream is shown for what it is. Finally after horrors, Miki, and her companions in the asylum, come out sane and happy, the other side of the tunnel.
Environment changes the way we see things. Emotions, derail us. Conformity and its sister fear.
Corporate horrors, brought about, by our collective, insane greed. There is lots more to see in this seeming 'romp' of a book. Recommended again and again and to be read again and again.
Environment changes the way we see things. Emotions, derail us. Conformity and its sister fear.
Corporate horrors, brought about, by our collective, insane greed. There is lots more to see in this seeming 'romp' of a book. Recommended again and again and to be read again and again.
May 29, 2014
An enjoyable surreal romp through Paris and Japan. An interesting snapshot of very different cultures and the classic pattern of a small event leading to some very big ones.
July 15, 2014
Superb, as usual...
June 8, 2014
Great book - will be good to make it into a movie!
January 7, 2024
Малката Мики Сузуки израства с красивите истории на нейния Оджийчан (дядо) за Париж – град, където хората са невероятно елегантни и красиви, а атмосферата е романтична и живописна. Мики се заклева един ден да посети Париж заради дядо си. И двадесет години тя печели награда – екскурзия до френската столица, от фирмата за евтина козметика, за която работи.
В Париж обаче Мики осъзнава, че реалността съвсем не се препокрива с мечтите, които тя има за града на любовта и светлините. У нея се появяват признаци на рядко психическо състояние, известно като Парижки синдром, който обикновено се проявява при японските туристи заради културния шок, който изпитват. Съвсем не с всички си акъл, Мики изпада в умопомрачение и правни невероятни сцени, а върхът на сладоледа е, когато показва задните си части в бутика на “Люи Вюитон”. След всичко това Мики е настанена в клиника за хора, страдащи от този синдром, тънейки в невежество какво последствия има от действията ù, докато е в състояние на амок. А те може и да се окажат фатални...
Започнах “Парижки синдром” без да прочета анотацията на задната корица и очакванията ми бяха за лек, романтичен роман, в който Париж ще е място, където любовта процъфтява. Да, ама не. Тахир Шах определено ме изненада със сюжета, който е избрал за романа си. Разклатеното психическо състояние на Мики Сузуки е основната тема в романа, а ситуациите, в които героинята изпада, са едновременно смущаващи и смешни. Неочакваното полудяване на младата японка е страхотен оригинален подход, с който автора показва различията между японската и френската култура и културния шок, който може да изпита всеки турист, попадайки на място, където привичките, навиците и бита се различават коренно от неговите.
Някак си обаче не успях да харесам Мики Сузуки. През цялото време ми се струваше прекалено навита, дори обсебена от мечтата си. Още с пристигането ù във френската столица, имах чувството, че нещата ще се развият катастрофално. Но пък искрено се посмях с изпълненията ù из френските булеварди и улици. (То не е смешно, ама...).
“Парижки синдром” е роман за сблъсъка между реалността и мечтите, за лудостта и нормалността, за очакванията и разочарованията. Ако Ви се чете нещо с нестандартен поглед към очарователния Париж, то това е Вашето четиво. Определено романът е интригуващ, завладяващ и с нестандартен сюжет. Препоръчвам го!
В Париж обаче Мики осъзнава, че реалността съвсем не се препокрива с мечтите, които тя има за града на любовта и светлините. У нея се появяват признаци на рядко психическо състояние, известно като Парижки синдром, който обикновено се проявява при японските туристи заради културния шок, който изпитват. Съвсем не с всички си акъл, Мики изпада в умопомрачение и правни невероятни сцени, а върхът на сладоледа е, когато показва задните си части в бутика на “Люи Вюитон”. След всичко това Мики е настанена в клиника за хора, страдащи от този синдром, тънейки в невежество какво последствия има от действията ù, докато е в състояние на амок. А те може и да се окажат фатални...
Започнах “Парижки синдром” без да прочета анотацията на задната корица и очакванията ми бяха за лек, романтичен роман, в който Париж ще е място, където любовта процъфтява. Да, ама не. Тахир Шах определено ме изненада със сюжета, който е избрал за романа си. Разклатеното психическо състояние на Мики Сузуки е основната тема в романа, а ситуациите, в които героинята изпада, са едновременно смущаващи и смешни. Неочакваното полудяване на младата японка е страхотен оригинален подход, с който автора показва различията между японската и френската култура и културния шок, който може да изпита всеки турист, попадайки на място, където привичките, навиците и бита се различават коренно от неговите.
Някак си обаче не успях да харесам Мики Сузуки. През цялото време ми се струваше прекалено навита, дори обсебена от мечтата си. Още с пристигането ù във френската столица, имах чувството, че нещата ще се развият катастрофално. Но пък искрено се посмях с изпълненията ù из френските булеварди и улици. (То не е смешно, ама...).
“Парижки синдром” е роман за сблъсъка между реалността и мечтите, за лудостта и нормалността, за очакванията и разочарованията. Ако Ви се чете нещо с нестандартен поглед към очарователния Париж, то това е Вашето четиво. Определено романът е интригуващ, завладяващ и с нестандартен сюжет. Препоръчвам го!
December 1, 2018
Un roman plutôt loufoque...
J'ai beaucoup apprécié la plume de l'auteur, l'intrigue en revanche, m'a laissée perplexe à bien des reprises.
Enfin, découvrir Paris par les yeux d'une étrangère m'a donné (peut-être) une idée de la psychologie de ces touristes que j'ai plutôt tendance à dénigrer...
J'ai beaucoup apprécié la plume de l'auteur, l'intrigue en revanche, m'a laissée perplexe à bien des reprises.
Enfin, découvrir Paris par les yeux d'une étrangère m'a donné (peut-être) une idée de la psychologie de ces touristes que j'ai plutôt tendance à dénigrer...
December 10, 2019
Good story, but not the best from Tahir.
March 13, 2026
И моя мечта е Париж. Накара ме да се замисля... за човешките мечти, за дълга към другите и към себе си. За човешките отношения.
July 30, 2014
Book Lust
I was lucky enough to be contacted by Mr. Shah’s agent about reviewing this book for him. I had previously read and reviewed his In Search of King Solomon’s Mines and loved it, so was happy to be able to read another of his books.
Before reading Paris Syndrome, I had never heard of the “condition.” However, a Parisian friend of mine was well-acquainted with it and told me all about it. Essentially it occurs when someone has idealized Paris in their minds, but when they finally visit the city, it is not what they imagined it to be. Because of this, the person may become temporarily mad and is only “cured” by leaving the city. It’s curious to me that the primary sufferers are Japanese people; I don’t know what in their culture would make this so, and would like to see a study sometime that looks into it.
The book was interesting in the way that it showed the progression of Miki’s Paris syndrome. She experiences one unfortunate after another and eventually becomes an international sensation for her crazy actions. Unfortunately, I think the book lacked the humor and voice of In Search of King Solomon’s Mines (and possibly other of Shah’s books). The book seemed a little disorganized, like maybe it was rushed and not as well thought-out as it might have been. An explanation could be that Shah is more accustomed to writing non-fiction than fiction. I’ll certainly be reading more of his non-fiction. Still, I enjoyed Paris Syndrome.
TL;DR: Enjoyable, though not as good as Shah’s In Search of King Solomon’s Mines.
I was lucky enough to be contacted by Mr. Shah’s agent about reviewing this book for him. I had previously read and reviewed his In Search of King Solomon’s Mines and loved it, so was happy to be able to read another of his books.
Before reading Paris Syndrome, I had never heard of the “condition.” However, a Parisian friend of mine was well-acquainted with it and told me all about it. Essentially it occurs when someone has idealized Paris in their minds, but when they finally visit the city, it is not what they imagined it to be. Because of this, the person may become temporarily mad and is only “cured” by leaving the city. It’s curious to me that the primary sufferers are Japanese people; I don’t know what in their culture would make this so, and would like to see a study sometime that looks into it.
The book was interesting in the way that it showed the progression of Miki’s Paris syndrome. She experiences one unfortunate after another and eventually becomes an international sensation for her crazy actions. Unfortunately, I think the book lacked the humor and voice of In Search of King Solomon’s Mines (and possibly other of Shah’s books). The book seemed a little disorganized, like maybe it was rushed and not as well thought-out as it might have been. An explanation could be that Shah is more accustomed to writing non-fiction than fiction. I’ll certainly be reading more of his non-fiction. Still, I enjoyed Paris Syndrome.
TL;DR: Enjoyable, though not as good as Shah’s In Search of King Solomon’s Mines.
October 7, 2014
Touching, exciting, lyrical and amusing, the amazing adventures of a Japanese girl in Paris had my full attention from page one. I was reading the Kindle version and even the fact that there are an astounding 173 chapters didn’t stop me. Perfect for reading on portable devices, during those ‘grabbed’ moments of escapism, every chapter of Paris Syndrome has an appropriately haiku-like quality.
I could feel the innocent wonder of our heroine, Miki Suzuki, at her first sight of Paris. I shared her desire to complete the simple task she had promised for her grandfather, which is of course frustrated at every turn.
Tahir Shah has an engaging style, a convincing knowledge of Japanese culture and delights in breaking the ‘rules’ of novel writing. Coincidences and misunderstandings wittily keep up the pace and even the smallest characters are wonderfully observed. I particularly identified with the unlikely hero, Michi Kinjo, an erstwhile reporter prepared to do just about anything to have a desk by the window of his office at the Asahi Shimbun (Morning Sun) newspaper.
Paris Syndrome is a book you will happily re-read and still discover something I promise you won’t find anywhere else. Highly recommended!
I could feel the innocent wonder of our heroine, Miki Suzuki, at her first sight of Paris. I shared her desire to complete the simple task she had promised for her grandfather, which is of course frustrated at every turn.
Tahir Shah has an engaging style, a convincing knowledge of Japanese culture and delights in breaking the ‘rules’ of novel writing. Coincidences and misunderstandings wittily keep up the pace and even the smallest characters are wonderfully observed. I particularly identified with the unlikely hero, Michi Kinjo, an erstwhile reporter prepared to do just about anything to have a desk by the window of his office at the Asahi Shimbun (Morning Sun) newspaper.
Paris Syndrome is a book you will happily re-read and still discover something I promise you won’t find anywhere else. Highly recommended!
December 2, 2014
'Paris Syndrome' by Tahir Shah is the unique and dark comedic story of Miki Suzuki. It has been her life's goal to go to Paris. Obsessing over the French capital for twenty years, Miki finally has the chance to go to her beloved city. Upon her arrival, however, she discovers that Paris is nothing like the pictures in her coffee table books. She soon falls victim to what is known as Paris Syndrome. Thus ensues her hysteria and with it, the slightly exaggerated and ridiculous schism between the Japanese and French government. All due to Miki's antics, and all for the sake of a coin purse for her grandfather from Louis Vuitton.
The drama and comedy are stitched so close together in this novel that I wasn't sure where one ended and the other began. 'Paris Syndrome' is written for a very distinct audience and some of the brilliant humour may be lost on some. Despite the unnecessary number of chapters, 'Paris Syndrome' has a little bit of something for everyone: depictions of Japanese and French culture, romance, suspense, and psychology. At times the humour seems a bit vague and more frustrating than satirical but 'Paris Syndrome' is, if nothing else, a thoroughly entertaining novel.
The drama and comedy are stitched so close together in this novel that I wasn't sure where one ended and the other began. 'Paris Syndrome' is written for a very distinct audience and some of the brilliant humour may be lost on some. Despite the unnecessary number of chapters, 'Paris Syndrome' has a little bit of something for everyone: depictions of Japanese and French culture, romance, suspense, and psychology. At times the humour seems a bit vague and more frustrating than satirical but 'Paris Syndrome' is, if nothing else, a thoroughly entertaining novel.
October 10, 2014
Very pleased to win my copy of Paris Syndrome from Giveaways, so thanks to Tahir Shah.
I was amazed when I checked Wikipedia to discover that Paris Syndrome actually exists and that Japanese tourists are particularly susceptible. Having lived in Paris myself for several years, I shouldn't be surprised!
I loved this book. I also love Louis Vuitton - the primary cause of Miki Suzuki's troubles, and have myself coveted many pieces, not least a coin purse!
Miki's very simple mission was to buy her aged grandfather a Louis Vuitton coin purse similar to one he saw in the window when he was in Paris during the war and which he told her about in the form of a romanticised story which makes Miki determined to get his purse.
Amusing, haunting and sometimes silly, we travel with Miki as she takes a psychological battering from being in Paris for the first time, and trying to match her long awaited expectations to reality.
We see the result on her psyche from coincidences, mishaps and misunderstandings during her visit, resulting in full blown Paris Syndrome, a stay in a clinic, an escape, finding true love and finally, recovery.
I was amazed when I checked Wikipedia to discover that Paris Syndrome actually exists and that Japanese tourists are particularly susceptible. Having lived in Paris myself for several years, I shouldn't be surprised!
I loved this book. I also love Louis Vuitton - the primary cause of Miki Suzuki's troubles, and have myself coveted many pieces, not least a coin purse!
Miki's very simple mission was to buy her aged grandfather a Louis Vuitton coin purse similar to one he saw in the window when he was in Paris during the war and which he told her about in the form of a romanticised story which makes Miki determined to get his purse.
Amusing, haunting and sometimes silly, we travel with Miki as she takes a psychological battering from being in Paris for the first time, and trying to match her long awaited expectations to reality.
We see the result on her psyche from coincidences, mishaps and misunderstandings during her visit, resulting in full blown Paris Syndrome, a stay in a clinic, an escape, finding true love and finally, recovery.
April 30, 2015
I absolutely loved PARIS SYNDROME, which is one of the most enjoyable books I’ve read in a long time. Simultaneously an adventure tale, a love story and a wickedly funny satire, it skewers everything from rapacious news media, to greedy mega-corporations, to national pride – in the process showing that the way in which we see the world is often nothing more than a projection of our own hopes, fears and fantasies. The exciting plot is sure to keep you turning the pages, and the story’s heroine, a young Japanese woman named Miki who has dreamed all her life of visiting Paris, is as charming as they come. This book really drew me in and managed to bring tears to my eyes at the end. Bravo and thank you, Tahir Shah!
September 2, 2015
I loved everything about this book! Highly recommend it to those who know and love Paris, Japanese culture, and a fun, yet innocent, adventure :)
Having lived in Paris for three years now and a lover of Japan and Japanese culture, this book was beautiful combination of both. It was a quick, fun, and easy read full of smiles and laughs. For those of you who truly know Paris, this book will make your day and crack you up. I just absolutely adored it! I would love to see this book made into a film... Who would've thought Miki Suzuki would cause such a chaos?!
This was my first book by Tahir Shah... I'm excited to read his other work.
Having lived in Paris for three years now and a lover of Japan and Japanese culture, this book was beautiful combination of both. It was a quick, fun, and easy read full of smiles and laughs. For those of you who truly know Paris, this book will make your day and crack you up. I just absolutely adored it! I would love to see this book made into a film... Who would've thought Miki Suzuki would cause such a chaos?!
This was my first book by Tahir Shah... I'm excited to read his other work.
January 19, 2015
A reader and follower of author Tahir Shah I thoroughly enjoyed Paris Syndrome.
Like most people, I assume, I had never heard of the real-life Paris Syndrome, so I researched a little before reading the book. This is no-way altered my enjoyment, but enhanced the character, misfortunes and mental instability of Miki, our heroine. Paris Syndrome also gives you an insight of how many 'would be travellers' might suffer 'culture shock' This entertaining book often had me grinning, at times grimacing. An easy read.
Like most people, I assume, I had never heard of the real-life Paris Syndrome, so I researched a little before reading the book. This is no-way altered my enjoyment, but enhanced the character, misfortunes and mental instability of Miki, our heroine. Paris Syndrome also gives you an insight of how many 'would be travellers' might suffer 'culture shock' This entertaining book often had me grinning, at times grimacing. An easy read.
July 31, 2014
This book was very entertaining! A young lady comes to Paris after her grandfather tells her about it only to contract "The Paris Syndrome" and has a bit of a meltdown when the city doesn't live up to her grandfather's stories. I had no idea Paris Syndrome was real (though I was aware of something like this happening in Jerusalem to certain people). It is certainly thought-provoking as well as an amazing book. It definitely comes highly recommended from me.
*won on GoodReads First Reads*
*won on GoodReads First Reads*
July 29, 2014
Won the book thru a goodreads giveaway. A very delightful and easy read. An interesting story that showcases human nature at its best and worst!
June 14, 2014
A modern, cinderella-type saga and really, really exciting. And now I have also learnt about the Paris Syndrome, a thought provoking phenomena if ever there was one.
Read
July 1, 2018Тази книга е толкова странна, че не знам хареса ли ми, не ми ли хареса и въобще как да я оценя.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews