Paris, historically considered a city for writers. Where Hemingway, Henry Miller, and so many others found their inspiration and nourished their literary appetites. In modern day too, writers flock to the stillness and serenity of Paris, strolling the same streets and frequenting the same cafes as their much revered predecessors, pen and paper often being replaced by laptop or ipad. One of the many reasons I feel so lucky to live in Paris is not only for it’s writerly setting, but for it’s intimacy. I am fortunate enough to have met and even befriended several of Paris’ 21st century writers. Expats much like myself, living their dreams, and sharing them in written form.
While I have always collected books, (and struggled to read them all), now I too collect authors, becoming intertwined in their lives via their blogs and published work. My latest addition is Ann Mah’s Kitchen Chinese, a book I could not put down, now finding it’s place alongside David Lebovitz‘ The Sweet Life in Paris, Alexander Lobrano’s Hungry for Paris, and Heather Stimmler-Hall’s Naughty Paris: A Lady’s Guide to the Sexy City. All of these not merely authors I admire, but people I have gotten to know during our shared adventures of Paris. David Sedaris I had to include, though I cannot really consider him a friend, we did have a lengthy chat at one of his book signings. Considering he lives in Paris, maybe our paths shall cross again.
I am also fortunate to have friends whose books I shall one day add to my shelves, grateful to have known them before, during and after. Namely, Amy Thomas whose sweet tales of Paris and New York I can’t wait to savour, and Sion Dayson, who too has a riveting book in the works. There are others who for the moment shall remain nameless, added to my collection when they are ready to reveal their stories to the world. Perhaps I too shall be one of them.
I’m so glad you got Ann Mah’s book, as you know it’s one of my absolute favorites! I couldn’t put it down and wished it kept going! This is, indeed, a brilliant city for all of us writers!
A great collection, and a great city to write! As to you adding your story in print on paper, I’m all for it! Would be a joy to read, own, and share with friends and family.
Thanks Marisa! As soon as I collect my many thoughts I will sit down and write… will keep you posted!
Oh, thank you for including me in such an illustrious group, Kasia! I have just finished my book today! How apropos! Now the journey of trying to get it published begins! I look forward to your book someday, too!
Congratulations Sion! I know how hard you have been working on this. Good luck with the next chapter (aka publishing). Can’t wait to read it!
Sheesh, really!? I’m so touched and honored – thanks for the shout out, mon amie! You certainly bundled me in good company. And, hel-lo, you’re not so bad yourself! xo
Mais oui! You are one of the writers (as well as being a lovely fellow NY gal) that I have been privileged to meet along the path of Paris.
I just moved to Paris, and I’m forever fascinated with what I eat and see. I absolutely loved Sweet Life in Paris and I’m only too happy to add your recommendations to my wishlist.
Enjoy your new life in Paris! So much to eat, see, do… You can keep up with the authors via their blogs too.
Oh my goodness! I am so touched and honored to be included here. Merci mille fois, Kasia! I’m looking forward to reading your book one day soon.
I am such a fan of your writing Ann! I read your book as though I were myself living the journey. Looking forward to the next one!
Kasia I really hope you do write a book about your experiences in Paris. I would love to read it!
http://www.styleonthecouch.com
NYC, the world, and Paris. Many experiences to write about!
David Lebovitz is having a meet up tonight! I saw his book in your book shelf…you may alread know about the meet up though! I was thinking about going.
http://www.davidlebovitz.com/2011/10/get-together-this-saturday-at-sugarplum-bake-shop-in-paris/
I will be there, early! Last time I went to David’s signing he ran out of books. Also, I love the sweets at Sugarplum. See you there Jayme!
I agree, there are so many wonderful authors whose books I enjoy immensely, particularly when the subject is France or Paris, but knowing some of the authors is an extra treat! I cannot wait for Amy’s book either!