Customer Reviews

French and Americans: The Other Shore

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3 star:		(1)
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This is an excellent book for anyone interested in moving to or doing business with France. Pascal Baudry's experience in both cultures is frank and eye-opening. Take a step outside your stereotypes and norms to see a raw view of two countries and cultures with centuries of cross-cultural connections. Even if you have no plans to live or work in France, this book provides an enriching insight into French and American culture.

This book is based on real knowledge, full of valid examples and thoughful commentary. Pascal is a man of high intellect and this is a documentary of his reflections.It is not a book to be read through in one sitting,but rather it should be read, savored and used to think about one's own experiences.

This was a book I purchased before going to Europe for 3 weeks, only a few days of which were to be spent in France. It is hard to beat the qualifications of the author and ex-patriot Frenchman and psychologist. I found the overall tone a bit to psychoanalytic but there were good insights to be had which explain why the French might seem rude. The good news was that is was not "me" it was "them." American friendliness is explained as a polite cultural norm which ends with a few sentences and does not invite a relationship. Apparently the French are totally immersed in each other's lives-once one get through the barrier and are accepted "in." Intense, and explains a lot. There are some other good perspectives that make an understanding of the French easier. However, there is no substitute for learning a few sentences in their beloved and beautiful language and learning to pronounce them impeccably. Talk with someone in French and actually have them respond without a subtle but pained cringe on their faces, or an immediate response in English, and you are more than half way toward getting a lot in France.

A fascinating analysis of the differences between French and Americans, with some insight into what causes them. Incidentally, I grew up in Russia and I think the book applies to Russians as well. If you are a European living in the US, this book is a must.