Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
36(36%)
4 stars
26(26%)
3 stars
38(38%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 14,2025
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I forced myself to complete this astonishingly sexist book.

It is certain that such a book would not be permitted to be published nowadays.

I'm not sure who this guy imagines himself to be. Lol.

Making comments about women's bodies is not humorous and has never been so.

I will have to inform the person who recommended it to the book club.

This book contains numerous offensive and demeaning remarks about women, which are not only inappropriate but also harmful.

It is disheartening to think that such views could have been expressed in a published work.

I hope that by sharing my thoughts with the book club, we can have a meaningful discussion about the importance of respecting women and challenging sexist attitudes.

We should strive to create a more inclusive and equal society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
July 14,2025
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In 2012, during a holiday, I picked up a book and started reading.

As I turned the pages, I found myself immersed in a world of words and stories.

The experience was not only enjoyable but also rejuvenating.

It was like taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and entering a peaceful and enchanting realm.

Each sentence, each paragraph, seemed to have its own charm, pulling me deeper into the narrative.

Reading on that holiday was truly a fun and memorable experience, one that I will always cherish.

It reminded me of the power of books to transport us to different places, to make us feel different emotions, and to expand our minds.

I look forward to many more such reading adventures in the future.
July 14,2025
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A Hilarious Account of a Young Englishman's Year in France


The story follows a young Englishman who embarks on an adventure in France for a year. It's a truly funny take as he attempts to date different local women, which leads to a series of comical situations. Meanwhile, he has the misfortune of working for a rather slimy boss.


The main character's experiences are both astute and highly entertaining. His observations about the French culture and his interactions with the locals provide plenty of laughs. Despite the challenges he faces with his boss and in his romantic pursuits, he manages to find humor in every situation.


Overall, it's a lighthearted and enjoyable read that will keep you entertained from start to finish. You'll find yourself rooting for the young Englishman as he navigates his way through this year in France, filled with laughter and unexpected twists.

July 14,2025
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I would rate this book as 1 star for the odd witty remark and the fact that, despite having nearly 400 pages, it wasn't overly boring (although I'm not sure how that happened).

However, I must deduct 4 stars for the absolute abundance of sexist and misogynistic remarks throughout the text. It was truly disheartening to come across such offensive language.

Moreover, the story suffered from repetitiveness, which made it a bit of a chore to read.

I was actually forced to read this book for school, and I can honestly say that I would not have finished it otherwise. You can trust and believe that.

Overall, this book had its moments, but the negative aspects far outweighed the positive. It's a real shame that such a potentially interesting story was marred by these issues.
July 14,2025
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Definitely, this is the funniest take on the Anglo-Franco mutual antagonism that I have come across in quite some time.

The portrayal of the French is rather unflattering. However, on the other hand, the book's fearless "hero" is also not without flaws. He is a self-absorbed and judgmental twit. Frankly speaking, he is a pretty decent substitute for the more obnoxious style of Londoner.

In conclusion, it seems that in the realm of love and chaos, all is fair. This humorous exploration of the Anglo-Franco relationship provides an entertaining and thought-provoking read. It shows that both sides have their quirks and flaws, and that perhaps we should not take ourselves too seriously when it comes to international rivalries.

July 14,2025
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I was perusing through some titles in a bookshop when suddenly this book caught my eye. How wonderful, I thought, as a student of the French language, I am more or less obliged to purchase anything related to France. So I quickly scanned it and bought it right away. However, I should have known that what I have in front of me is a bit of a dud, thus the title.


The main reason I bought it was that I wanted to familiarize myself with French culture, specifically Parisian culture. But, considering the author is British and given the Franco-British relation during the time this was written (2004), it is not the ideal book for French culture enthusiasts. The book seems like a compilation of rants from a British professional assigned in Paris, so you would anticipate a lot of complaints, swearing, and trash-talking. On one hand, this led me to not appreciate living in Paris at all. On the other hand, at least the book didn't brainwash me into thinking that everything Parisian is beautiful, smooth, and perfect.


What else? The main character, Paul West, is so full of himself, especially in the beginning. So when he got involved in a dirty business later on, I was smirking, thinking that he deserved everything that happened to him during his stay in Paris, including the several times when he stepped on merde. Most of the time, I noticed that he was being humorous, but I didn't get or appreciate the humor at all. Perhaps because I'm neither British nor a foreigner in Paris.


I have never been to Paris, so the book is both a blessing and a curse. The author's accounts of what life in Paris is like are good, provided they are true, as I was exposed to the common behaviors of the Parisians as well as different life hacks such as ordering in a café, working, and dining etiquette. Etc. There's a wealth of information, I assure you. BUT, along with those helpful 'tips' are the snarky comments of the author. I don't know if he is just exaggerating to somehow prove that his culture is superior to that in France. And also, since he kind of makes fun of what it's like in Paris, I'm not sure if what he wrote about the culture, both the positive and the negative aspects, is true at all.


To sum it up, I didn't find the book entertaining and felt like I just forced myself to finish his rants. The book has a sequel, and even if I'm lucky enough to come across a copy of it in the bookshop, I don't think I'll read it.
July 14,2025
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Dear Heterosexual Male Authors,


I would like to kindly request that you take a moment to carefully review your descriptions of men and women within your written works. It has come to my attention that in some cases, women are described solely in terms of their relative attractiveness or with rather detailed and perhaps inappropriate focus on their sexual organs. The question then arises: do you apply the same level of such description to men?


For example, a standard description from a particular book might state, "She had breasts three feet wide," and, "She had cellulite on the backs of her thighs." Now, if you do not also include similar descriptions of men, such as, "The outline of his cock was reminiscent of the toy poodle he walked along the shit covered streets," or, "His generous bubble butt navigated the crowded office with surprising ease," then perhaps it is time for you to reevaluate your writing habits and consider your intended audience.


You may argue, "But I'm a heterosexual man." Yes, that is evident. However, unless you anticipate that your audience will consist only of men, and heterosexual men exclusively, it would be advisable for you to rethink the nature of your jokes and the way you describe the genders in your writing. This is to ensure that your work is more inclusive and respectful of all readers.

July 14,2025
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The protagonist in this story is truly an insufferable asshole. The French are presented as paper-thin stereotypes. The streets are allegedly covered in dog poop. The women, in this warped view, invariably want to sleep with the protagonist, even though most of them have boyfriends. They are described as libertine, watching porn and growing weed in their walk-in cabinets, which is a tired stereotype of French women. It's truly baffling what they could possibly find attractive in this narcissistic idiot. I, for one, wouldn't even sleep with him if he looked like T. Hiddleston. Well, maybe then, but only if he promised not to speak and got out before I woke up in the morning.

Casual homophobia, transphobia, and a very low opinion of women are abundant. Let's not forget the stereotypes that French people are incompetent, men are effeminate (oulalala sacre bleu!), and corrupt. Oh, and of course, nobody speaks good English.

Argh. I deposited this book in a public book box. Maybe it will make somebody else happy, but for me, it was a rather unpleasant read.
July 14,2025
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The original article:

The importance of recycling cannot be emphasized enough. It helps reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and protect the environment. By recycling, we can also save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Expanded article:

The importance of recycling truly cannot be emphasized enough.

It plays a crucial role in reducing waste that would otherwise end up in landfills, taking up valuable space and causing pollution.

Recycling also helps to conserve our precious natural resources. For example, by recycling paper, we can save trees, which are essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

In addition, recycling is an effective way to protect the environment. It reduces the need for extracting and processing new raw materials, which often requires a significant amount of energy and can have a negative impact on the environment.

Moreover, recycling can also lead to energy savings. When we recycle materials, it usually takes less energy to produce new products from recycled materials compared to using virgin materials.

Finally, recycling can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing the energy consumption associated with manufacturing new products, we can help to mitigate climate change and protect our planet for future generations.
July 14,2025
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A young Brit lands a marketing job in Paris. It seems like a dream come true. He enjoys good pay, delicious food, and the company of beautiful women in this beautiful city.

However, there is one major flaw in this otherwise idyllic scenario. The young man harbors antiquated beliefs about the French. Old stereotypes are deeply ingrained in his mind. He thinks the French are sex-crazed, overly fussy eaters, and snobbish.

Based on this premise, the book is supposed to be uproariously funny as "our hero" navigates his life in the "City of Light". But it fails to deliver. It is filled with every cliché about both nationalities, making it very unfunny. Perhaps readers in 2004 might have found the striking French workers, corrupt politicians, or anti-Iraq war sentiment amusing. But 15 years later, readers view it as a xenophobic and politically incorrect novel.

When I reached the end and discovered that there is a sequel, I was disgusted and threw up my hands. I gave it only 1 star out of 5 as a reward to myself for enduring and finishing this piece of trash.
July 14,2025
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Never been to France? Never plan to go?

Well, if you desire a truly insulting and xenophobic encounter with what is purported to be "French Culture", then by all means, read this book. However, if that's not your cup of tea, you might as well dash into the middle of the Champs Elysées and shout at the top of your lungs, in the most incomprehensible and slang-ridden English, "I THINK THIS COUNTRY SUCKS BUT I'D PREFER TO BE HERE INSULTING THE MOST STEREOTYPICAL CLICHES AT THE TOP OF MY LUNGS RATHER THAN BACK AT HOME WHERE EVERYTHING IS ORDINARY AND BORING."

Let's face it, if you truly prefer the comforts and familiarity of home, then perhaps that's where you should stay. There's no point in coming to a foreign country just to badmouth it. Instead, one should try to approach new cultures with an open mind and a willingness to learn and understand. After all, every country has its own unique charm and beauty that is waiting to be discovered.
July 14,2025
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If you find yourself having a begrudging annoyance towards the French in general, then this book is an absolute must-read. It offers a unique perspective that might just change your perception. You'll be surprised by the insights and stories it contains.


If, on the other hand, you possess the ability to laugh at your own misfortune, this book is also perfect for you. It will provide you with plenty of humorous and relatable moments that will have you chuckling out loud.


However, if you don't have either of the above qualities, or if you happen to be a French woman, it is advisable not to read this book. Why? Because you might feign offence and become all sanctimonious, and as a result, give this book a measly 1 star. But don't let that stop others from enjoying the wonderful experience that this book has to offer.

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