A HOUSE IN THE SUNFLOWERS Living the Dream in the South of France

Ruth Silvestre reads her own memoir of finding, acquiring, and rebuilding a house in Southern France. In her clipped British accent, she precisely recounts her family’s desire to buy the house called Bel-Air de Grezelongue. As she reminisces over the rebuilding of the house, the listener rebuilds with her. The details of meals, farming, and getting acquainted with local neighbors create a peaceful recollection. More descriptive than narrative, this is a meandering recollection. Not as amusing as Peter Mayle’s or as lyrical as Frances Mayes’s, Silvestre’s memoir is satisfying for her level of detail and her personal pleasure in sharing her story. R.F. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 05]