After posting my review of The Little Paris Bookshop by Nina George (isn't that fictional floating bookstore a book lover's dream?) how could I not follow up with photos of Paris's quaintest book store Shakespeare and Company. I love the history and character of this place and it was a highlight of my time in Paris.
The Story of Babar the little elephant is just one of the many books I purchased for my granddaughter, (and moi` lol) on my trip. I also wanted Madeline but it was out of stock ... next time.
"It’s a tradition in France to ink-stamp the title page of a new book with the bookseller’s hallmark. At Shakespeare and Company, the practice dates back to shop’s opening in 1951 and, before that, to Sylvia Beach’s bookstore on rue de l’Odéon. Elect to have your book inscribed with the official Shakespeare and Company stamp, and every time you open its pages, you’ll encounter a little reminder of its Parisian origins."
It's true ... each time I open Babar there's an extra special warm-fuzzy.
The intro by A.A Milne is sweet and funny and just perfect.
"... If you love elephants you will love Babar and Celeste. If you have never loved elephants you will love them now. If you who are a grown-up have never been fascinated by a picture-book before, then this is the one which will fascinate you. If you who are a child do not take these enchanting people to your heart; if you do not spend delightful hours making sure that no detail of their adventures has escaped you; then you deserve to wear gloves and be kept off wet grass for the rest of your life.
I can say no more. I salute Monsieur de Brunhoff. I am at his feet."
Do you have a favourite french-themed picture book?
I also love Shakespeare and Company's Message in a Bottle letterbox ... how magical to receive a note, poem or drawing tucked into the pages of the book you ordered ... from Paris to far flung book lovers across the globe. I wonder where my note ended up??
Paris in July hosted by Tamara @ Thyme for Tea
Also linking up with Paulita's Dreaming of France meme over at
