John S. (Seajack) reviewed on + 347 more book reviews
I really wanted to dislike this book: it's written in the first person present tense, with details of animal husbandry and home renovation aplenty - yawn. Now that I've finished, I'd call it a darned good read (perhaps just a tad long).
Strongest point would be his self-effacing humor, always at just the right level, and not overworked in quantity. Wright does come across as a bit of an overachiever (with his piloting, piano playing, etc.), but that's just who he is I finally decided. French locals are distinctive, without being cartoonish, though he's a bit tough on other ex-pat Brits - I found his forcing them to struggle with speaking French in asking for directions and such a bit mean.
Definitely recommended, as it's well-written and funny - I'm giving it somewhat lower stars than it may have deserved as I just couldn't identify with the author, especially the animal husbandry episodes, which dragged for me a bit at times.
Strongest point would be his self-effacing humor, always at just the right level, and not overworked in quantity. Wright does come across as a bit of an overachiever (with his piloting, piano playing, etc.), but that's just who he is I finally decided. French locals are distinctive, without being cartoonish, though he's a bit tough on other ex-pat Brits - I found his forcing them to struggle with speaking French in asking for directions and such a bit mean.
Definitely recommended, as it's well-written and funny - I'm giving it somewhat lower stars than it may have deserved as I just couldn't identify with the author, especially the animal husbandry episodes, which dragged for me a bit at times.
