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Eric Kirchmann, M.D. is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University with a passion for travel. He married his high school sweetheart, Courtney, whom he met in junior high French class. After raising their children, they now aim to explore the world with deep dives into the culture, history, food and people of the places they visit. With expertise in communication and human interaction, Eric brings fresh and unique observations to the world of travel writing. Author of the (unpublished) books Écoutez et Répétez and All I Got Was Cheese…, Eric’s first release, Your English is Better than My French (2023), was well received (Amazon #1 New Release in four categories- French Travel, Paris Travel, Dordogne Travel and Travel Tips, Amazon #2 Best Seller in Dordogne Travel). His second release It Starts with Bonjour is due out in February 2024. Eric and Courtney live in Raleigh, NC near their three grown children and precious grandchildren.
Reviewed by Renee Guill for Readers' Favorite
It Starts with Bonjour by Eric Kirchmann is a non-fiction travel book. This is about the second adventure to France that he and his wife took. They traveled to places like Paris, Toulouse, and the region of Gascony, to name a few. He describes the places they visited and he gives their history. Eric also gives insider tips and talks about all the people they met, the food, wine, and the Armagnac brandy they enjoyed, plus the history of Armagnac. I love these kinds of books; it is like having a mini vacation without having to go anywhere.
It Starts with Bonjour by Eric Kirchmann was a fascinating book. I was a bit disappointed that there were no photos of their travels, but his descriptions were so beautifully done that photos were not really needed. I loved that he didn't expect you to know French as it's been many decades since I learned it. Eric is extremely good at writing details. You probably don't want to be hungry when you read this book. His descriptions of the food will make you hungry and made me wish it was a cookbook. I thought the insider tips that Eric gave were great, not the usual type you normally get. I always loved learning about the history of places I visited, so I was fascinated with the detailed history of each place that he and his wife visited. If you are thinking of traveling to France or just love the country, I highly recommend reading this book.
