C'est la Folie cover art

C'est la Folie

One Man's Quest for a More Meaningful Life

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C'est la Folie

By: Michael Wright
Narrated by: Michael Wright
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About this listen

 One day in late summer, Michael Wright gave up his comfortable South London existence and, with only his long-suffering cat for company, set out to begin a new life. His destination was "La Folie", a dilapidated 15th century farmhouse in need of love and renovation in the heart of rural France.

In a bid to fulfil a childhood dream of becoming a Real Man, he struggles to make the journey from clinically social townie to rugged, solitary paysan. Through his enthusiastic attempts at looking after livestock and coming to terms with the concept of living Abroad Alone, he discovers what it takes to be a man at the beginning of the 21st century.

©2006 Michael Wright (P)2008 Isis Publishing Ltd Environment Growing Up Science Fiction Funny Inspiring Witty Adventure Cats

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Critic reviews

"Wright captures the fun of the countryside perfectly." (Sunday Times)
"What elevates this book...is Wright's gentle humour and his ability to create a vivid impression of his literal and emotional journey...with such wit and perception." (Sunday Telegraph)
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Then this is book for you! Francophile or not this books takes you away from the 9-5 into a world of nature, simplicity and tranquility.

if you've ever dreamed of living the dream...

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Absolutely enchanting. I loved this book when I read it years ago. Now listening to it on Audible, il est devenu vivant!

C'est merveilleux

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Listened to this first in a cottage in Northern Brittany but would have enjoyed it anywhere. Really funny, and yet very insightful and honest about his own character and those of the wonderful characters living around him. His love and enthusiasm for the country and the people he meets shine through. Listening also evoked many memories of growing up in the late 60's and 70's as well as capturing the difficulties of learning and speaking another language while in that country. His reading is note perfect.

C'est formidable !

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I have loved this book and the one that follows. Funny, honest, account of the struggles to adapt to a very different life. I loved his different accents and his bit and pieces of French language. I will play it again and again.

emotional roll through life in rural france

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I felt like I could relate to the writer from the off. Lots of nostalgic and inspiring feelings mixed in with a certain something. If only the English had a word for it.. It was as if someone had access to my brain at times, such were the thoughts that the writer told with a subtle, but sophisticated skill. On to the next book I can find by Michael Wright.

Loved it!

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Enjoyed the characters and how the story draws you into the lifestyle created by Peter in rural France ! His kind thoughtful sincere and interesting personality is engaging ! Loved the book !

Entertaining throughout!

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I bought this book because I have always wanted to live in France. I found this book addictive and what ever the audible equivalent of a page turner. I listened to the book in about 5 days and can't wait to listen to the follow up. Michael's description of living with Chickens has even made a true towny like me think about it.

Supprisingly adictive

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Michael tells the wonderfully warm story of his adventure moving to France. His warm tone and sensitive words paint a wonderful picture of his life at La Folie.

I’d recommend this to anyone who, like I, have a dream of escaping to France.

A wonderful story

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I really enjoyed this lovely tender book so much so that I will read the sequels

Tres agreable

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Would you listen to C'est la Folie again? Why?

I've listened to this book several times and enjoyed it each time. It's so well written, with beautifully descriptive sections, factual daily-life stories and humourous episodes - all adding up to a vivid snapshot of the author's adjustments to life in France.

What did you like best about this story?

The fact that the author read it himself. He reads well. I also liked hearing about the differences between English and French life. I'm a Francophile, so perhaps I'm biased! I was very interested in learning about the Ouessant sheep (you have to read the book!).

What does Michael Wright bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

Somehow it makes it more believable with the author reading it.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Made me laugh in parts. Didn't cry - don't think it was meant to make you cry!

Any additional comments?

A must-read for anyone interested in France and the French.

A gentle dip into the real side of France

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