Chronicles of Old Paris

January 1, 2012

Continuing the publisher's series (after James Roman's Chronicles of Old Las Vegas), Baxter (The Most Beautiful Walk in the World: A Pedestrian in Paris) gives travelers quick insights into the colorful history of Paris. There's something here for everyone, from artists (Henri Toulouse-Lautrec, surrealism, and the artist community of Montmartre) to history buffs (the Resistance) to writers (George Sand and Ernest Hemingway) and musicians (Django Reinhardt and Josephine Baker) to monarchy enthusiasts (Marie Antoinette) and architecture fans (Eiffel Tower, Opera Garnier). Each chapter gives a brief history of the subject matter and a short list of related sites, plus a small map that includes subway stops, though the lack of footnotes and references limits this book's use for a history report or research paper. The end of the guide includes walking tours by neighborhood for those looking for a more traditional, geographic approach. VERDICT A fun, supplemental travel book for those seeking to go beyond the traditional tourist spots--an additional guide is necessary for basic travel information.--Sara A. Miller, Atlanta-Fulton P.L. Syst.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.