...but isn't that what most of us have been from time to time? And this one is not so much a guide as a wonderful enticement to enjoy one of the best aspects (the food) of one of the loveliest places on earth. The central theme is that it is possible to enjoy a market each day of the week, by moving from town to town in Provence. The seven markets that are covered are in Cadenet, La Tour D'Aigues, Saint-Remy, Aix, Bonnieux, Apt, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. About half of the 130 pages are pictures, a few "snap-shots" that capture the action, most are carefully composed, and a few are truly evocative, like the basin of Cucuron on page 30. Each picture saves those proverbial 1000 words
The book commences with a forward by Patricia Wells, the indomitable former food editor of the International Herald Tribune. The style of writing is fashioned for the tourist, struggling with strange French words, and concepts. There are numerous recipes, so that those with their own facilities can enjoy their purchases in delightful consumption. There are other sidebars that explain unique aspects of the country, such as the bread, truffles, Provencal fabrics, pottery, etc. There are several practical appendixes which cover other markets, seasonal specialties, typical foods, with the French explained, useful phrases, a conversion chart, a glossary, a listing of selected restaurants, and a brief suggested reading list.
I've been to the markets in five of these seven towns, have enjoyed them all, and feel that their description in the book captures their spirit accurately. My next to favorite market is the one in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, where I have been innumerable times. The picture of the Café De France on page 115 brings back many memories, of having a beer with the boys "while the women finish." And it evokes anticipation... I'll be there again in a few days. The very best part of the book though is its omission! My very favorite market, a gentle 300 meter stroll from the gite we rent - may its relative obscurity remain, as well as the lack of cameras and English. `Cause you only go around once in life...
(Note: Review first published at Amazon, USA, on October 02, 2008)