Toujours Provence by Peter Mayle

Title: Toujours Provence

Author: Peter Mayle

First Published: 1991

No. of Pages: 241

Synopsis (from B&N): "Taking up where his beloved A Year in Provence leaves off, Peter Mayle offers us another funny, beautifully (and deliciously) evocative book about life in Provence. With tales only one who lives there could know — of finding gold coins while digging in the garden, of indulging in sumptuous feasts at truck stops — and with characters introduced with great affection and wit — the gendarme fallen from grace, the summer visitors ever trying the patience of even the most genial Provençaux, the straightforward dog 'Boy'—Toujours Provence is a heart-warming portrait of a place where, if you can't quite 'get away from it all,' you can surely have a very good time trying."

Fiction or Nonfiction: Nonfiction

Comments and Critique: This is a light and delightful read. With the exception of the occasional French phrase, it doesn't require anything from the reader except to relax and enjoy. Each chapter focuses on a specific activity engaged in or person known by the author. For instance, he tells of attending an open-air concert by Pavarotti; learning about pastis from a local restaurant owner; and attending the local dog show. There's a lot about eating in here, including more than one chapter dealing with truffles, and the descriptions of the food will make your mouth water. I'm glad I waited until the summer to read it -- it fits in perfectly with the slower days and desire for less demanding books.

Challenges: 999 ("Travel"); Nonfiction 5