An American in Provence: Art, Life and Photography

3.5 stars.

It's funny: I just read a book the other day that I couldn't get into because I couldn't seem to connect with the author's voice. I hadn't been familiar with them before, and the book made me casually interested in looking up their socials--but that was about it.

This read was similar in that I wasn't familiar with the author prior to picking up the book--but it quickly made me a fan! Her voice and story were immediately engaging, and I am glad I stumbled across it. (And now I would like to pack up and move to Provence. Thank you, Jamie Beck. ;D)

A few of the pics weren't really my jam--a bit too sensual for my taste--and there was some language, including an f-bomb, which was unfortunate.

But, I really enjoyed the photography show more tips and food recipes. Mmmmm, methinks I'd really enjoy (eating) French cooking! LOL! And, I loved Beck's challenging of the continual pursuit of looking young and doing more-more-more/#allthethings. In this Advent season, especially, I am encouraged to slow down, experience life, and engage all the senses. This book definitely helps with that. show less

The title and sub-title tell you what the book is about – an American (woman) moves to Provence and slows down to really experience her life and to spend time making photos just for herself. The title doesn’t tell you that it’s a lovely, oversized coffee table book full of gorgeous photos, French recipes, instructional photography tutorials and more. I have been following Jamie Beck on Instagram because she lives in France and is an amazing photographer. When I heard about this book, I couldn’t wait to read it.

I had to laugh at the reviewers who criticized her photos and her writing. Yes, it’s all about her – it’s a memoir for crying out loud! She writes about how she discovered herself in the peaceful French countryside show more after living for years in the high-stress, fast-paced world of New York City.

The book is organized by seasons, with a French glossary and an extremely helpful index to assist you in easily locating what you’re looking for.

I found her writing style to be thoughtful, reflective, and often poetic. I do agree with other commenters that the font is too small (I’m glad to know it wasn’t just me). But the beautiful photos - of which many look like just like paintings – compensate for that issue.

This would make a wonderful gift for a Francophile, art lover, photographer, armchair traveler, or anyone who appreciates well-written memoirs. show less