Books: En Francais
Published 7:39 am Friday, January 9, 2015
By Ray Saadi—Book Editor
FLIRTING WITH FRENCH By William Alexander, Algonquin Paperbacks, $15.95
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Whether or not you’re planning to visit France, learn the language or even, as the author desires, actually become French, you’ll find his memoir delightful. For laughs, lessons and wonderful notes on the history and description of the French countryside, this book cannot be beat. Alexander enrolls in a French immersion class where English is forbidden and travels miles and miles with his wife on bicycles through Provence. An altogether delightful read. Certainement!!
FLUENT IN 3 MONTHS By Benny Lewis, Harper One, $17.99
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The “Flirting with French” author could have used this method of learning a foreign language (any one) in just three months. Fact is they both share similar approaches to learning a new language, the most important of which is having a native speaking friend to talk with. Or, of course, one can visit the country of choice and stay awhile, or do as Alexander did and enroll in an immersion class. Learning a foreign language can be done but it ain’t easy. You have to use it or lose it.
