How Paris Became Paris

frustrating

Any additional comments?

The book was fairly easy listening, given the topic, but it made regular references to illustrations - to which I didn't have access. I'm going to read the book myself instead.

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The text refers to illustrations

For that reason, it's the worst audio book ever! There are apparently lots of maps and historical illustrations included in the printed book. When the narrator says "… as in the illustration…" you're out of luck. If I had known this, I would not have bought it.

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Fascinating history, but narrator is unbearable

Bottom line: listen to a sample of this narrator before you buy.

I listened to this in preparation of an upcoming visit to Paris. The history of the city is fascinating and relevant. The author breaks up certain aspects of the city's development (e.g. building the Pont Neuf, development of Paris's fashion dominance) and talks about how each contributed to the Paris we know now--and ultimately, every modern city.

But wow, the narrator is absolutely horrendous. He reads every sentence with so much drama and superiority, you'd think he was actually trying to evoke the ridiculous stereotype of a stuck up Parisian. I am not sure why the narrator insisted on reading like that, because it doesn't sound natural and the text itself doesn't read like that at all.

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Will Stick to Reading On This One

The narration is terrible; should have listened to a sample first. I could only stand 45 minutes of listening. I will read my kindle edition instead and enjoy it much more.

Sparkling

Fascinating, chrisp history connects the various developments and inventions which made Paris the City of Light and every travelers mecca. Blessed with perfect French, the Reader delivers every noun and nuance so beautifully as to truly complement the flowing threads of this history.

An entertaining look at how urban development impacts culture

While this book took a little while to get going it comes into its own talking about how urban development had dramatic impact on culture and the development of style and fashion. An enjoyable listen.

A great history of my favorite city!

Any additional comments?

This book was quite enlightening about the development of Paris, and the innovations that have led urban development. Loved it!

Excellent template for how to brand a city

A knowledgeable clear and well written story about the evolution of Paris.The book documents the strategic planning to change the city from a medieval to the first modern city in Europe.

Wonderful

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

This book contains a wealth of information that complements our knowledge of European history in the early modern period. It is far more than merely a history of Paris: it sheds light on a variety of elements that together constitute the transformation of the European world. I felt constantly delighted and enriched, and was reminded of the joy I experienced when in the 1970's I read Braudel's 'Civilisation matérielle et capitalilsme', a seminal book that opened up many new vistas. The present book not only makes life in 17th century Paris more real, it also ties together many strands that thread through that epoch, thereby enhancing our understanding of France and Europe.

What was one of the most memorable moments of How Paris Became Paris?

Many "aha" moments.

Have you listened to any of Robert Blumenfeld’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No, but he is just about the only narrator who pronounces French well, and that alone makes him my favorite narrator for any book that contains many French names. I can understand some listeners not liking his way of speaking, but I think it is fine, and good French pronunciation (alas so rare) is in itself worth at least a star!

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, but perhaps that would be too much. It is inebriating but intellectual stimulation cannot be enjoyed in one gulp.

Any additional comments?

Having read some of the more negative comments, and not feeling inspired myself during the first half hour, I was VERY pleasantly surprised as the book went on. I do agree that this is a book that particularly appeals to those with an interest in European history, and especially to those acquainted with French history and with Paris. If you have not already developed such an interest, this is perhaps not the place to start. If you have, the book is not to be missed.

Interesting but not notable

This is a satisfactory but lightweight historical presentation identifying how the development of infrastructure influenced society and led to the beauty of the city today. There is little depth or detail. and talking points are limited to a few major sites. The premise is sound and could have made for a great book at the hands of someone who really wanted to dig deep but this author did not. It' a quick and easy read, perhaps good for someone not already knowledgeable about the history of Paris.

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