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Pardon Our French: The Parisian Way to a Happier Life

Contributor(s): Durand, Alex (Author), Carles, Tom (Author)

ISBN: 9780593994764

Publisher: Penguin Life

Hardcover
$30.00
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Pub Date: September 8, 2026

Lexile Code: 0000

Target Age Group: NA to NA

Physical Info: 0.00" H x 0.00" L x 0.00" W ( 1.25 lbs) 256 pages

Descriptions, Reviews, etc.

Description: From the beloved creators of AT Frenchies, a witty, heartfelt, and delightfully practical guide to finding a happier life by embracing l'art de vivre--the French art of living.

Best friends Alex and Tom grew up in Paris chasing their soccer dreams before an unexpected twist landed them in small-town America. Out of that culture clash came a revelation: The French mindset--presence over efficiency, depth over superficiality, quality over quantity--can help all of us experience more joy and contentment when we need it most.

Now, with their signature mix of humor, vulnerability, and French flair, they share their playbook for living with a little less stress and a little more zest, including advice for:

  • Savoring life's pleasures--from long lunches to the perfect croissant
  • Loving authentically--why romance should be playful, unhurried, and game-free
  • Living with style--effortless, intentional, never overdone
  • Building real friendships--choosing quality over quantity, depth over numbers
  • Balancing work and play--ditching burnout culture for a healthier rhythm

Whether you're sipping red wine in Provence or iced coffee in Ohio, Pardon Our French shows you a better, happier way to be.

Review Quotes: Praise for Pardon Our French

"Thank you, Alex and Tom, for making our beautiful French language shine with such humor and energy!"
--Emmanuel Macron, President of France

"This book is a culmination of the AT Frenchies' incredible experience teaching and bridging cultures with levity--and just pure fun!"
--U.S. Embassy in Paris

"Charming, stylish, and delightfully French, Pardon Our French is a celebration of the little things that make life richer: good food, good company, beautiful rituals, and the joy of savoring every moment. It's the kind of book that makes you want to linger longer at the table, pour another glass of wine, and say 'oui' to life!"
--Daniel Boulud, French chef and Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur.

"I wish AT Frenchies had existed when I moved to France 30 years ago! Pardon Our French decodes the mindsets and misunderstandings that so easily get lost in translation. Filled with dating advice, style tips, recipes and more, this book is a love letter to the French way of life."
--Genie Godula, Senior Anchor at France 24

"With Pardon Our French, Alex Durand and Tom Carles offer far more than a playful look at the cultural differences between France and the United States. Through their inspiring and deeply human journey, they celebrate an art of living rooted in curiosity, meaningful connection, the pleasure of simple things, and openness to the world. Honest and modern, this book is a wonderful reminder that French culture still has much to teach us about living with balance and joy."
--Alan Nobili Executive Director, Alliance Française de La Nouvelle-Orléans

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