What happens when love meets a language barrier? Lauren Collins dives headfirst into this question in her delightful memoir, When in French. As she moves to London and falls for a charming Frenchman named Olivier, Collins finds herself in uncharted territory. Despite not even owning a passport until college, Collins embarks on a journey of love that unfolds entirely in English.
But here's the twist: what does it truly mean to love someone in a second language? Are there hidden depths to Olivier that she can only reach by speaking French? Does "I love you" carry the same weight as "je t'aime"? These burning questions lead Collins on a quest to learn French, a mission she undertakes when the couple decides to make the move to Francophone Geneva.
When in French is more than just a memoir about love. It's a hilarious exploration of our relentless pursuit of love and the cultural nuances that come with it. Collins grapples with the intricacies of French, enduring cringe-worthy role-playing exercises at a Swiss language school, and even accidentally telling her mother-in-law that she's given birth to a coffee machine. As she immerses herself in French, Collins becomes entwined in the very fabric of French society, realizing that life in North Carolina is a world away from the allure and idiosyncrasies of France.
Through her witty storytelling and wicked sense of humor, Collins takes us on a journey through the depths of humanity's linguistic maze. She shares her frustrations, embarrassments, surprises, and ultimately, the pure joy of learning and living in French. When in French is not just a book to listen to, but an experience that unveils the power of language in shaping our identities and connections with others.
With a stellar audiobook rating of 4.4/5 and a length of 7 hours and 44 minutes, When in French, narrated by the talented Khristine Hvam, will have you laughing out loud and reflecting on the beautiful and sometimes perplexing ways that language defines who we are. So sit back, press play, and let Collins whisk you away on an unforgettable linguistic adventure.