France: An Adventure History

France: An Adventure History is a captivating journey through France from the first century BC to the present day, featuring new discoveries and thirty years of exploration. It is packed with insights, stories, and surprises, offering a vivid, living history of one of the world's most fascinating nations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

France: An Adventure History is a captivating and informative book that has been recognized with numerous awards. It has been described as "ceaselessly interesting, knowledgeable, and evocative" by the Spectator, while the American Library in Paris Book Award has deemed it a "Book of the Year Winner." The book offers a fresh perspective on history, with author Alan Johnson praising it as a "fresh way to write history." The The Times also commended it as an "amused, erudite homage to France," highlighting its ambitious and original nature.

This captivating journey through France spans from the first century BC to the present day. Drawing from a wealth of new discoveries and thirty years of extensive exploration of France on foot, in libraries, and across 30,000 miles on the author's beloved bike, the book offers a comprehensive and immersive experience. It begins with the Gaulish and Roman eras and concludes in the age of #MeToo, Black Lives Matter, the Gilets Jaunes, and COVID-19.

Throughout the book, author Graham Robb presents familiar events and themes of French history in a new and illuminating light. From the picturesque plains of Provence to the bustling streets of Paris, readers are taken on a lively and engaging journey through the rich tapestry of French history. The book is filled with humorous anecdotes and surprising revelations, making it an unforgettable read for both seasoned Francophiles and those who are new to the captivating world of France.

One of the remarkable aspects of France: An Adventure History is its abundance of discoveries. The author has conducted extensive research and uncovered numerous previously unknown facts and stories. The book is packed with insights, anecdotes, and surprises that will captivate readers and leave them wanting more. Whether it's exploring the origins of the French language, delving into the political intrigues of the French Revolution, or tracing the development of French cuisine, Robb's writing is filled with vivid descriptions and captivating narratives.

The book's rich and vibrant narrative style is another standout feature. Robb's clear-eyed yet imaginative storytelling allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the historical context while also being entertained by his vivid descriptions and captivating storytelling. The book's narrative is full of life, making it an engaging and enjoyable read from start to finish.

In conclusion, France: An Adventure History is a must-read for anyone who has an interest in history, France, or the captivating stories of human civilization. With its original, knowledgeable, and endlessly entertaining approach, the book offers a fresh perspective on one of the world's most fascinating nations. Whether you are a seasoned Francophile or a newcomer to the world of French history, this book will leave you wondering if you truly know the "terra incognita" that is currently referred to as "France."

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529007657