This is a fabulous concept. Lonely Planet Paris – 24 hours and 250 photos in one city photographed by River Thomson with captions written by Nicola Williams.
The book begins with shots of Paris in the early hours of the morning – from flowers to patiisserie, the metro, market stalls and souvenir shops selling Eiffel Towers. Moving through the day, we see Haussmann buildings and the work of a street artist, parks and canals. By evening we've graduated to the Shakespeare and Company English Bookshop, culminating in the Caveau de la Huchette jazz club and the Moulin Rouge.
Sometimes there is a quote from River Thomson about how or why he took a specific photograph and there is a short running commentary from Nicole Williams with historical references and explanations.
This is a fascinating insight into a city and Harriet and I were enthralled. We are going to Paris for a short stay during the summer holidays and the book has totally fired her imagination. "I can use my camera and try to take similar pictures," she said, having just reviewed the VTech Digital Camera.
You will want to go through Paris from Lonely Planet, time and time again, and on each viewing there will be more inspiration and insight. It's like a love letter to and from Paris, inviting the reader to visit and enjoy France's capital city both in her magnificence and simplicity.
PWT rating: ♥♥♥♥♥
PhotoCity Paris (Lonely Planet)