Once upon a time, I found myself engaged in a lively debate with a friend about "The Corrections". I was truly fond of the book, believing it to be exquisitely well-written. Each sentence seemed to be a finely crafted piece of English literature, leaving me with a profound impression. However, my friend had a completely different perspective. She thought the book was pretentious and couldn't stand it.

Our conversation quickly turned into a passionate argument, ultimately boiling down to the significance of likeable protagonists. My friend firmly believed that a good story must have at least one "Good Guy", a character that the reader can easily relate to and root for. In her view, any book lacking this moral anchor was inherently bad. She even went as far as to imply that my defense of "The Corrections" might suggest something suspect about my own morality. Was I perhaps an asshole for enjoying a book filled with what she considered to be assholes?

First and foremost, I vehemently disagreed with her assessment of the characters in "The Corrections". I saw them as lifelike and multi-dimensional, with motives that were a complex blend of pure and impure. While they were indeed capable of acts of cruelty and deceit, they were also equally capable of showing compassion and forgiveness. Secondly, even if the characters were assholes, I still couldn't accept my friend's argument that this automatically made the book bad. I firmly believe that the likeability of characters has little to do with the artistic merits of a story.

For example, I have a deep love for "The Little Prince", "The Perks of Being A Wallflower", "The Lord of the Rings" (movies), Stephen Colbert, and "My Antonia". And yet, I also have a great appreciation for "Goodfellas". Can you name a single character in "Goodfellas" that you would actually want to emulate? How about in "A Clockwork Orange"? On the other hand, Hallmark movies are often filled with loveable characters, but does that necessarily mean they are good?

Anyway, all of this is just a prelude to conceding what many other reviewers of this book have already pointed out, which is that the main character is not particularly likeable. He's a bit lame and has a bit of a bro-ish quality, or at least the English equivalent thereof. He's not as bad as the knuckleheads in the pub who pound back ale and fart, but I would say he's chauvinist in the sense that he's primarily interested in women as sexual conquests. However, as I've already stated, the likeability of the protagonist is rather tangential.

This book had a remarkable effect on me. It made me feel as if I was actually living in Paris. It made me laugh at the French, in a lighthearted and affectionate way. It was a breezy and mostly funny read, easy to get through. It also significantly improved my understanding of the French/British dichotomy - how the two countries relate to one another culturally, in a mutually judgmental yet simultaneously envious manner. The book had a clear narrative arc, centered around the evolving relationship between Paul and his boss/nemesis Jean-Marie.

Overall, it's a great airplane book. It reads quickly, provides mild amusement, and you'll even learn a little bit about France. I truly enjoyed it. However, I don't feel the slightest bit inspired to read any of the five sequels.

I found it to be quite an uproarious and entertaining romp!

What I really liked was that in addition to the writer's misadventures and rather steamy sexcapades, there was a truly engaging story that unfolded.

This story was developed in a way that was both interesting and nicely rounded off, providing a satisfying conclusion.

However, one question that still lingers in my mind is, who exactly is Paul West?

Perhaps he is a central character in the story, or maybe he is someone whose presence has a significant impact on the events that take place.

It would be interesting to learn more about him and his role in this humorous and captivating narrative.

Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that kept me entertained from start to finish.

Really cute!

I'm extremely glad that I took out book 2 from the library. The story in this book is truly captivating. It left off in such an exciting way, with Paul on the verge of starting a new adventure.

Just imagining what might come next for Paul makes me eager to continue reading. Will he encounter new and interesting characters? Will he face challenges that test his courage and determination?

I can't wait to find out. The anticipation is building up inside me, and I'm sure that as I turn the pages, I'll be completely immersed in Paul's new adventure.

This book has already drawn me in with its charming characters and engaging plot, and I have a feeling that the rest of the story will be just as wonderful.

This has a sort of Tucker Max vibe.

It's as if we are imagining a scenario where English elitism takes the place of the rather unappealing date-rapey frat-bro predation.

The concept is quite interesting and makes one think about the different forms of behavior and power dynamics that can exist in various social contexts.

Personally, I have a great love for learning about France.

The insights provided in this book are truly illuminating.

They offer a deeper understanding of the country's culture, history, and society.

It's like opening a door to a whole new world of knowledge and discovery.

The author's perspective and the way the information is presented make it a captivating read.

One can't help but be drawn in by the details and the unique take on France.

It's a book that not only educates but also entertains, making it a great addition to any bookshelf.

Whether you're a Francophile or simply interested in learning more about different cultures, this book is definitely worth checking out.

Hilarious!

This book is truly a gem that caters to both francophobes and francophiles alike.

For the francophobes, it offers a comical and perhaps somewhat exaggerated look at all the things they might dislike about France and the French. It pokes fun at cultural stereotypes, language idiosyncrasies, and various aspects of French life in a lighthearted and entertaining way.

On the other hand, francophiles will also find plenty to enjoy. The book presents a unique perspective on the French culture that might make them see it in a new light. It could even deepen their appreciation for the things they already love about France, while also making them laugh at the more humorous aspects.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in France or a sense of humor. It's a great way to have a good laugh while also learning something new about a fascinating culture.

This article is filled with lots of fun and plenty of poking fun at both the French and the Brits.

It has a quality that makes it read very much as if it were completely true, rather than the so-called "almost-true" (heh) as it is described.

The author seems to have a great sense of humor and uses it to create an entertaining piece that playfully teases the characteristics and idiosyncrasies of both nationalities.

Whether it's about their cultural differences, language, or other aspects, the article manages to find the humorous side and present it in a light-hearted and engaging way.

It's the kind of read that can bring a smile to your face and make you forget about the seriousness of the world for a while.

Overall, it's a great example of how a bit of humor and satire can make an article truly enjoyable and memorable.

Is there a distinct category for fictional nonfiction? I was deeply engrossed in the book, firmly believing it to be a nonfiction memoir. As I read on, I couldn't help but think, "There's no possible way he can say all these negative, yet humorous, things about his coworkers and the French in general without facing severe consequences, perhaps even being put on the guillotine."

And then it dawned on me that it was fiction, albeit strongly influenced by his real experiences, presumably. At that moment, I couldn't help but chuckle. Surely, there must be some former friends who no longer send him Christmas cards. (To a certain extent, I don't think I would be fond of the character in person, if he truly existed.)

Underneath the snarky humor and astute observations, I firmly believe there is a great deal of truth in his characterizations (even though I have never been in that particular situation). And still, I find myself yearning to experience it all for myself, minus the dog poop. I would classify it as "light reading," and I'm convinced that anyone who enjoys a good laugh will thoroughly enjoy it. It's perfect for a summer read, perhaps, or just before you embark on a journey across the pond.

Snarky really liked the description of the arrogant Parisians in the story. However, he found that the protagonist was way too preoccupied with the idea of getting laid. It seemed that all his thoughts and actions were centered around this one goal.

Interestingly, the French women in the story appeared to be too acquiescent to his desires. They seemed to easily give in to his advances without much resistance. This, of course, added to the overall tone of the narrative.

But it's important to remember that this is just fiction. It's a creation of the author's imagination, and while it may contain elements that are recognizable or even relatable, it doesn't necessarily reflect the real world. We can enjoy the story for what it is, a work of entertainment, without taking it too seriously.

Perhaps the author was trying to make a statement about human nature or the dynamics between men and women. Or maybe it was just a fun and somewhat naughty tale. In any case, it's up to the reader to decide what they take away from it.

Paul, the protagonist with a British sense of humour, vividly narrates his experiences during a year of working (or rather, "working") in France.

Through his account, a rather laughable, indifferent, and "merdeuse" (since "life" is feminine in French) French life unfolds before our eyes. Sarcasm drips from every page, causing me to chuckle inwardly.

I am so entertained that I am determined to purchase the sequel, "In The Merde For Love."

Without a doubt, this book ranks among the best I have read this year. It offers a unique and humorous perspective on the cultural differences and the idiosyncrasies of life in France, making it a truly enjoyable read.

I can't wait to see what further adventures Paul will have in the sequel and how his experiences will continue to amuse and enlighten me.

I began reading the book with the anticipation of a pleasant and speedy read. After all, I have a deep affection for France and Paris. I have visited there numerous times and have even lived like a local. So, during the pandemic, I craved something familiar.

However, right from the start, I found the author rather irritating. At first, I thought it might just be a minor annoyance, but as I delved further, I discovered his chauvinistic nature. I tried to rationalize it by thinking, "Well, it was written a few years ago, and perhaps the attitudes were different then."

But by page 53, I was absolutely infuriated with him. If his actions truly mirrored his words, he would be a sex pest. He speaks of women with no respect whatsoever. He describes them as ugly, points out their faults, and treats them as if they are mere playthings for his own amusement. I highly doubt that a woman named Christine threw herself at him. It seems to me that he needs to put his insecurities aside and actually recall Paris as it truly is.

Sadly, I had to give up on the book. It is not humorous in the slightest; instead, it is nauseating. I had hoped for an enjoyable and lighthearted read about Paris, but what I got was a disturbing display of misogyny.

I'm a bit of a francophile. Please don't tell my high school French teacher. But in case you do - it just took me a little longer to realize what a fun language, people, and country they have.

French is such a beautiful language, with its unique sounds and expressions. The people are known for their elegance and charm, and the country is filled with rich history and culture.

This book by Stephen Clarke is truly great. He is hilarious in his recounting of his experience in France. His stories are both entertaining and informative, giving readers a glimpse into the daily life and customs of the French.

One of the funniest quotes from the book is: "Merde happens, you see, and it can even bring you luck. As long as someone else treads in it." This quote perfectly captures the lighthearted and humorous tone of the book.

If you're interested in France or just looking for a good read, I highly recommend this book. It's sure to make you laugh and maybe even inspire you to visit the country yourself.

I had spent two months in Paris, and I had expected this to be a comical portrayal of the challenges faced by a foreigner living in France.

However, perhaps it is simply not to my taste, but I did not find it the least bit funny. In fact, I found it extremely distasteful, particularly in its treatment of women. It seems to suggest that women exist solely for the pleasure of men, which is a deeply offensive and inaccurate view.

The writing itself was straightforward, which is why I was able to finish it so quickly. But based on its content, I would most definitely not recommend this piece to anyone. It fails to capture the true essence and complexity of the experience of living in a foreign country, and instead resorts to cheap stereotypes and offensive humor.

Overall, I was disappointed with this work and would encourage others to look elsewhere for a more accurate and engaging portrayal of the expat experience.