Books! A love of many who read this blog. And ’tis the season—to give them, receive them, and just maybe, after the last present is open and dinner is over and the family has departed, to spend some of that precious Christmas vacation actually reading them.
Usually for my first post of the year, I like to share some inspirational quotes, many with some kind of French connection, to get our resolutions flowing. This year I’ve decided to share some of the books that have inspired me over the years—with the hope that some of you will share yours as well.
Earliest book memories? These would include two that were my first brush with France: the Madeline and the Babar series.
There are just too many books that touch the heart and soul to mention. But If I had to pick just one in the tug-at-your-heartstrings category, I’d go with French author Jean-Dominique Bauby, who wrote The Diving Bell and the Butterfly.
But the ones I remember most are of practical variety, as I am that kind of girl. Books that helped to change the course of life and career.
When I was a poor grad student at age 23, I picked up an obscure hippie tome in the library, called The People’s Guide to Country Real Estate (buying a house with nothing down was the theme). Following their instructions exactly, I bought my first house at 24, and ending up renovating a dozen more, over the years. This sideline was actually my most lucrative “job”, and my passion.
When I later wanted to change careers, I wore out my copy of What Color is Your Parachute, remember that one? And my inspiration to travel partially came from reading Mary Stewart’s mystery novels, all set in different exotic locations that she made come alive with her lush descriptions.
Then on to le troisième âge, retirement age. Peter Mayle and Frances Mayes sold us on the great European lifestyle. Two books, The Grown-ups Guide to Running Away from Home, and another "Grown-ups" edition about moving to France; plus a little memoir called At Home in France, helped give us courage to make that move abroad.
There are lots more, bien sûr, but I would like to hear from you. What books reset your compass, or spoke to your heart, what books linger on the memory? It’s a new year, time for new beginnings, and a great new book!
PS: Speaking of being inspired, some beautiful writing I’ve encountered lately was by Roger Rosenblatt, who wrote an article called This Year, Make A Resolution About Something Bigger Than Yourself. He suggests forgoing the short-lived self-care ones (losing weight, etc.) and instead resolving to help others in some way. If you can’t read the article (there may be a firewall), then here is a lovely quote from the article, with great thoughts for a new year, by Walt Whitman:
“This is what you shall do: Love the earth and sun and the animals, despise riches, give alms to everyone who asks, stand up for the stupid and crazy. Re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your own soul, and your very flesh shall be a great poem.’’
On that perfect note, happy new year!
In the COMMENTS : a discussion on books would not be complete without Natalia‘s recommendation. And a French one at that: The Complete Book of French Cooking by Delorme and Boue. Francine has more to tell us about French holiday traditions, as well as a recipe in her cookbook. Colleen, I agree, giving away most of the cookies is best! Anne, thanks for the kind words and for filling us in on butties, all new to me.
Photo at top, courtesy of Etsy
