Ellie Nielsen

Ms. Nielsen is the perfect writer. She is self-depreciating, and her inability to master the French language mirrors my own. Given that I'm half-French though, my transgression is far worse.

It is really her voice though that makes this book. In so far as travel lit goes, the plot is typical. Giving this story to another writer would not ensure it's success. It's Ms. Nielsen's ability to describe a situation, her sweet nature and sharp (inner) tongue which makes this a great read.

Living in Paris is the author’s dream, and this is the tale of buying an apartment with minimal language skills, limited time and no understanding of French ways. Like one of my other favourite accounts of negotiating life in France as a foreigner (Almost French by Sarah Turnbull), this is by an Australian. It is delightful to watch as the unpretentious optimism of the Aussie wins over the more cautious and critical Parisians.