Two books reviewed by Laurence Mackin
France: A Traveler's Literary Companion, William Rodarmor and Anna Livia (editors), Whereabouts Press, £8.99
Regardless of the quality of the work on offer, this book is a wonderful concept: a collection of short stories organised by region that form a complex tour of a country through a most eloquent literary vehicle. Thankfully, the texture of the book is of as high a calibre as the concept, providing, for example, an account of harvesting young wine "that's as rough on the mouth as a swear word, and which the peasants celebrate the way people praise a boxer" and of a lady who likes her men of an older vintage: "You like 'em like wine, huh, with cobwebs on the cork." A glittering collection of work that lights up the page, then, with a masterful balance of colour, humour and oddity that is an excellent blend of the classic and cutting edge.
Paris 2009Time Out Shortlist, £6.99
If you're planning a break for the year ahead and pennies need pinching, then Paris must be close to the top of the list. The greatest attraction is the city itself, which comes free of charge, so what's not to love? Time Out's latest city guide has a handy list of month-by-month events, so you can organise your weekend to coincide with a festival, be it 10 days of jazz or a day picking charms out of scrumptious pastries. An itinerary on the magnificent Vélib' cycle system is another affordable alternative before you blow your money on an indulgent dinner, for which this guide has plenty of ideas. The book also says the notion of north Paris as an artistic capital is alive and well, thanks to places such as 104, on Rue d'Aubervilliers. The city of light has lost none of its allure.
lmackin@irish-times.ie