Perhaps it's the weather to blame for my longing for sun, sun and more sun. A month-long vacation in the south of France would be just the cure for my early summer blues, but since that neither fits with my schedule nor my budget, the next best thing is a dip into a few of my favourite books.
"A Year in Provence"--doesn't the title make you think of sun-drenched vineyards, baguettes, and olive oil? Mmmmmm. The author, Peter Mayle, who began his career in advertising and travel writing, fell in love with Provence and took the plunge into buying an old rather decrepit chateau. The trials and tribulations of his first year dealing with tardy workmen, the infamous mistral, and lack of central heating will make you laugh and shake your head in recognition. Despite it all, he truly loved the French countryside, its people, and its food--aah, especially the food. Sumptuous details of wonderful dishes he ate, along with their preparation, and an almost visual description will make any epicure reach for the nearest French cookbook, and make plans for a garden in the summer.
These are just a few of his adventures that I have read and reread:
A Year in Provence (1991)
Toujours Provence (1992)
French Lessons: Adventures with Knife, Fork and Corkscrew (2002)
A Good Year (2005)
Give yourself a summer treat and pick up one of these to read on rainy days. Have a great vacation!!
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