Seine: The River that Made Paris

The Seine is a memoir, travelogue, and history of Paris and the river that shaped its course, written by Elaine Sciolino and published by The New York Times.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 06 November 2020
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

Blending memoir, travelogue, and history, this captivating book is a heartfelt love letter to Paris and the river that shaped its destiny. Renowned storyteller and New York Times foreign correspondent Elaine Sciolino takes readers on an immersive journey along the Seine, immersing them in the lives of its vibrant characters. From the remote plateaus of Burgundy to the bustling streets of Paris and the serene shores of the sea, the Seine emerges as a central protagonist, weaving a tapestry of stories and emotions that captivate the reader.

Through her captivating storytelling, Sciolino brings the Seine to life, painting a vivid picture of its beauty, history, and cultural significance. She explores the riverbanks, bridges, and waterways, capturing the essence of its charm and allure. The Seine, she reveals, is not just a physical landscape but a living, breathing entity that has witnessed the ebb and flow of human history.

One of the book's most remarkable aspects is its ability to humanize the Seine. Sciolino introduces us to a diverse range of characters who have their lives intertwined with the river. From the bargewoman who navigates its treacherous waters to the riverbank book-seller who shares stories of Paris's past, each character adds a unique perspective to the narrative. The Seine becomes a character in its own right, with its own personality and quirks, and the reader is left with a deep sense of connection and empathy for this majestic waterway.

Sciolino's writing is elegant and evocative, transporting the reader to the heart of Paris and the Seine. Her descriptions are vivid and detailed, allowing the reader to feel as if they are standing alongside the river, experiencing its beauty and majesty firsthand. The book is also filled with fascinating historical anecdotes and insights, providing a deeper understanding of the river's significance in French culture and history.

The Seine is a must-read for anyone who has ever been captivated by the magic of Paris or the allure of the river. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of a book to transport readers to new worlds and perspectives. This captivating book will leave you longing for more, and it will inspire you to explore the world and discover the hidden treasures that lie within its embrace.

In conclusion, The Seine is a remarkable work of literature that blends memoir, travelogue, and history to create a captivating portrait of the worlds most irresistible river. Through the lives of its vibrant characters and the rich tapestry of stories it weaves, this book offers a deep appreciation for the Seine and its enduring significance in French culture and history. Elaine Sciolino's writing is elegant and evocative, transporting the reader to the heart of Paris and the Seine. This is a must-read for anyone who has ever been captivated by the magic of Paris or the allure of the river.

Weight: 316g
Dimension: 139 x 209 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780393358599