Ze French Do It Better: A Lifestyle Guide

by Frédérique Veysset, Valerie de Saint-Pierre

Eternally slim, natural beauties, with well-behaved children and perfect soufflés--how do the French do it? Steal all their tricks (without becoming a snob!) with this humorous lifestyle guide.

In all areas--from fashion to cuisine to the art of seduction--the French reign supreme in their ability to enjoy life to the fullest. So why do we love to hate the French, yet still covet their singular joie de vivre?

A duo of saavy authors breaks it down for readers by dividing the French populace into relatable "tribes"--each of which offer keys to a life well-lead. To demystify the French enigma, each chapter opens with a short quiz to help readers determine their level of kinship with that particular Classic Frog, AristoChic, Vintage Bourgeois, Modern Bourgeois, Intellectual, Feel-Good Bohemian, or Foodie. With tongue-in-cheek humor, the authors divulge the enviable Gallic secrets so that readers can integrate elements of an iconic French wardrobe, infallible recipes, life-enhancing rituals, cult products, and personal style tips into their daily routine. Offering insight with verve and wit, this book is replete with facts and practical tips for assimilating the best of what France has to offer.

The volume is completed by a guide to the best addresses in France and online for quintessentially French inspiration.

224 pages, Paperback

Published May 14, 2019

Reviews

[Soma · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh, expected something better or atleast more general. But then again it does provide some tips on local stuff like good restaurants, bakeries and boutiques (but only in specific genres which is a bit meh)

[Kiersten · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping that this would be more of a narrative-style book on French lifestyles, but it's kind of a cross between a travel guide and product history. It takes seven different types of personalities and showcases what these sorts of people enjoy, from fashion to food. You'll learn about iconic French brands and their histories. I'm curious to visit some of the places in the guide. If you're dying to know who has the best Madelines or who created the iconic bistro chairs, it's all in there. Keep your phone handy because you'll want to see pictures of things as you read.

[Susan White-Riggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting read on the "types of Parisians" there are in Paris, really France. But what is so great about it is the recommendations , for hotels, cafes, shopping, areas of interest, etc. A goldmine of info!!!

Nice to re-visit, a fun read to keep by the bedside.

[Joshua Friesen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Basically the French do everything better. Whether it's food, clothes, movies, hairstyles, love making, home décor, parties, etc. Enjoyable to read.