Picnic in Provence

by Elizabeth Bard
Picnic in Provence cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Cookbooks / Food Writing
Technical:
  • ID: 2021
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781783724840
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2015-05-14
  • Reviews: 3

Elizabeth and Gwendal embark on a new chapter of their lives by moving to Provence, a region known for its vibrant blue skies, fragrant lavender fields, and peaches that taste like sunshine. Their journey is captured in 'Picnic in Provence,' a unique blend of memoir and cookbook that invites readers into their kitchen and their lives. The book is not just a collection of recipes but a testament to the unexpected joys and challenges of living abroad, offering a glimpse into the couple's daily adventures and the delicious meals they share along the way. Through personal anecdotes and chocolate-smudged recipes, 'Picnic in Provence' reminds us that life, both in and out of the kitchen, is full of surprises. The book is a celebration of the simple pleasures of cooking and living, making it a perfect read for anyone who loves food, travel, and a good story.

Reviews
The Good Life France · 2025-10-11
delightful 4.50

The book is described as a delightful, romantic, and humorous read that captures the essence of life in Provence. The reviewer appreciates the blend of personal storytelling and culinary delights.

The reviewer finds 'Picnic in Provence' to be a charming and engaging read, highlighting its romantic and humorous elements. They particularly enjoy the way the author weaves her personal experiences with the vibrant culture and cuisine of Provence. The book is seen as a delightful escape, offering a mix of heartwarming moments and mouthwatering recipes that make it a standout memoir.

Quick quotes

    Picnic in Provence by Elizabeth Bard is a deliciously romantic, funny, foodie and fabulous read.

    The story of New Yorker Elizabeth's life with her French husband and young daughter in the South of France.

    A delightful and heartwarming read that captures the essence of life in Provence.

The Green Tree is Chirping · 2015-06-25
substantial 3.50

The book has a slower start but becomes more substantial as it progresses. The reviewer finds it meatier and more detailed, which they appreciate.

This reviewer notes that 'Picnic in Provence' starts off a bit slow but becomes more engaging as it progresses. They appreciate the depth and detail that Bard brings to her storytelling, making it a more substantial read. While the beginning might feel a bit drawn out, the overall narrative is rich and rewarding, offering a deeper look into life in Provence.

Quick quotes

    A lot. 'Picnic' has a slower start, and is probably meatier – unnecessary, especially at the beginning.

    The book becomes more engaging as it progresses, offering a deeper look into life in Provence.

    Bard brings a rich and detailed narrative that makes the read more substantial.

Goodreads · 2015-04-07
charming 4.00

The reviewer appreciates the wit and humor in the book, comparing life to a rendez-vous with the unexpected. The inclusion of recipes adds a unique touch to the memoir.

This reviewer enjoys the witty and humorous style of Elizabeth Bard, finding her writing to be like receiving letters from a dear friend living in France. They highlight the unexpected twists and turns in life, both in and out of the kitchen, which Bard captures beautifully. The addition of recipes makes the book even more special, offering a taste of Provence alongside the personal narratives.

Quick quotes

    With wit, humor and scoop of wild strawberry sorbet, Bard reminds us that life-in and out of the kitchen-is a rendez-vous with the unexpected.

    Bard's prose is like reading letters from an old friend who just happens to live in France.

    The inclusion of recipes adds a unique and delightful touch to the memoir.

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