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Chocolate and Croissants
, March 07, 2013
(view all comments by Chocolate and Croissants)
Linda lead the life I would have wanted to live in my teen years (minus the au pair taking care of children). I always wanted to be a flight attendant and live abroad. I was too short on the flight attendant part and I was never going to babysit anyone's children on a full time basis.
It all started when author Linda wanted to work for the airlines. Finding out that she needed to speak another language she decided that she would be an au pair in France and learn the language so that she could fly to France. The part of the program that she did not take into account was that she would need to speak French. The author had a French speaker complete her application.
All was well until she met the family that she was going to work for an au pair for...or more specifically the madame of the house. Of course it is understandable that Madame was upset that that Linda did not speak French. But given she was about 8 months pregnant she decided to keep Linda. All was downhill from here. While every story has two sides, Madame comes across as the meanest crankiest person one could be stuck working for in a foreign country where one did not speak the language. When Linda takes ill with the flu Madame gives her barely a moment to get better warning her that she had better not infect the household. While Linda was expected to do light house work she found herself beating carpets and serving guests. Of course no visit to France would be complete without a married man hitting on you (it was one of the guests). My favourite was when Linda complained that there was no heat in her room and she was told to send home for warmer clothing.
To her credit Linda tries to make the best of the situation despite all the challenges. Madame's daughter is a mini Madame, snarky and undermining Linda. The young boy is a delight to spend time with and Linda enjoys baking and making him pancakes.
Trying to learn French Linda takes classes at a university in a nearby town. Here she meets some college kids and finds herself a cute boyfriend. Interacting with other English speaker and young people her age gives her some sanity.
After months of torture Linda makes a decision to quit. Once again Madame's true colours come out as she kicks Linda out of the house.
I give Linda credit for trying to make the best of a situation. Along the way she is able to experience some of the treasures of France. Messieur teaches her about wine and dinner at the house is always a culinary experience.
Should you read this book...without a doubt. It is fun and keeps your attention throughout. You want Linda to succeed and not succumb to tears.
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