Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite

In Paris for Life: Notes From a Lifetime in and out of Paris, Barry Frangipane shares his delightful explorations of Parisian art, culture, and history. Barry's early fascination with Paris compelled him to return to the city decades later with his family. We see him as a shy 21-year-old who was hesitant to profess his love during his early stay in Paris. We also see him as a father and husband whose sense of adventure was still very much alive 45 years after his first visit. His first visit involved him learning French by participating in a fake robbery and other fun exercises in an exciting French class. From struggling with money and job applications in a foreign country with a different language to being locked out of his apartment while in a food coma, Paris for Life offers readers several fascinating stories.

Barry Frangipane writes concisely while making sure to include interesting details from his travels, whether he is discussing Claude ​Monet's famous paintings in Port Coton or narrating his visit to a little-known ​memorial to the French who were victims of the Nazis in World ​War II. The clear descriptions ensure readers get the most vivid travel experience possible from a book. Even the language used in narrating the story is a pleasure to read. A good example states, "All noise of ​​Paris disappeared, replaced by a deafening silence." The amazing characters add to this memoir's irresistible features. One is Marie-Christine Thieblemont, who enjoyed working seven days a week as a bouquiniste. I was completely captivated by the book from start to finish and recommend all travel enthusiasts read it. Don't miss out on Paris for Life: a book that's educative, exquisite, and richly adorned with travel thrills.