The Informed Wardrobe: The horrors of SHEIN.

23 December 2025 by Polly Watton

fashion, Fast-fashion, Guerrisol, paris, second-hand, Shein

Hi everyone, and welcome to the informed wardrobe, your weekly show providing updates on the crimes of fast-fashion, and giving alternatives so that you can make better fashion choices, and make your wardrobe more informed.

This show is here to inform people about the dangers of fast fashion, and to bust some myths about slow fashion. Purchasing Slow fashion is most of the time cheaper and better quality, and just needs a bit of extra time and effort to find just as nice, if not better, and always more unique clothing pieces. That is why, every week, I will be providing slow fashion recommendations, whether it be a thrift shop, an online store, a second hand market or organisations and events which promote slow fashion.

In the first episode, find out more about the dark controversies surrounding fast-fashion brand SHEIN.

The slow-fashion recomendation of the week is Guerrisol. Here are some adresses of the cheapest and biggest Guerrisol’s in Paris:

In the 18th arrondisment. Address: 21 Blvd Marguerite de Rochechouart, 75009 Paris, France

In the 5th arrondisment: Address: 8 Bd de Sébastopol, 75004 Paris, France

In the 13th arrondisment: Address: 5 Av. d’Italie, 75013 Paris, France

Our Favorite Things to Do in Paris for the Holidays!

21 December 2025 by Polly Watton

General

Christmas, france, Holidays, Markets, paris, Santa, theatre

Paris in the winter is dark, cold, and can be isolating. However, especially around Christmas, the magic can still be found. Joy can be found with family, at Christmas markets, light displays, and community events. In the most recent episode of Parentalité, a show dedicated to people raising children in France, Joelle Benoliol, Rachelle Chapman and producer ARBL Murray discuss the little ways that you can find this magic and joy. With recommendations for events and places, as well as a magical gift guide, this episode tells you everything you need to know about finding parisian christmas magic with your little ones – or alone!

Christmas markets and villages

The most obvious activity that kids and adults can enjoy simultaneously is the Christmas markets and villages, and Paris has a plentiful amount. Whether you want to marvel at the lights and decorations, buy some Christmas presents, or get jolly on mulled wine, these markets are enjoyable for everyone.

Vivani park (next to Notre dame) – More discrete charm, gifts, dried fruit, and food.
Tuileries- Have ice skating, a ferris wheel, and tons of special French foods like Raclette
Hotel de Ville-Oysters and gift stalls
Our Favorite La Vilette (the newest village), running until December 28th features wooden chalet stalls, concerts, and creative workshops for children, ice skating and a Raclette restaurant.
Christmas Tea from Mariage Freres – This isn’t a Christmas village or even a Christmas store but it’s an old fashioned tea house with an incredible service that makes parents and kids feel special.

Ice skating!

Galleries Lafayette: You can skate in the sky at Galleries Lafayette, with an ice rink on the rooftop of this grand building, although the ice is not real.
Grand Palais has a beautiful rink made of real ice, adorned with beautiful light displays and art. It is 25 euros per person, but it is well worth it!
Vincennes also has a rink made of real ice, to skate around next to the beautiful forest for an authentic Christmassy feel.

Ateliers for kids and teens

If your children are a little more mature, or maybe just cultured in art and literature, there are plenty of art exhibitions, ateliers and activities to keep them happy.

MAIF Social Club is a cultural space in Le Marais, with exhibitions and amazing ateliers for kids. For example, Monsters et Creatures abyssales, running until the 11 July next year, allows you to create a deep-sea creature, inspired by the horse shoe crab which you can watch move on its own due to its structure.
The hunting and nature museum is recommended for kids who like animals and nature. Built in the 1960s, housed in a beautiful renaissance building, this museum explores artists’ relationship to nature.
Musee Rodin is also a great place to take kids, with not only the majestic statues in the garden but interesting ateliers for children.
Lafayette anticipations has art and music workshops for kids every weekend. Le petit cordon blue, the famous cooking school gives special French baking workshops for kids of all ages.
Red Balloon bookstore has story time for young children and a “Banned Book Club” for slightly older kids
Fragonard perfume has perfume making workshops for kids as long as their is a parent present.

Theater

Theatre Essaion have some great shows specifically for young audiences, and there are some fantastic christmas shows on until mid january: Under The Christmas Tree, inspired by the nutcracker, The Christmas Train, Santa’s Sleigh, Charlotte and the Santa Claus Suit and Merry Christmas, Rotten Dog!
The Theatre des Marionettes Du Luxembourg also put on traditional Parisian puppet shows, captivating young audiences.

Street Art

The space invader mission is a great walk around Paris. Famous street artist Space Invader has put special characters up in Paris and all around the world for years. Now there is an App that heps you track and count the space invaders you find.

Swimming (Yes even in winter)

Piscine de Pointoise is an art deco style pool in the latin quarter
Piscine Emile Anthoine has a gorgeous view of the Tour de Eiffel
Piscine Josephine Baker in the 13th is an outside pool with gorgeous sunset views over the seine.

Forest walks near Paris

Sometimes Paris gets too overwhelming, especially with children, and all you want is to stroll through a forest, not seeing another person for miles.

Fontainebleau is a 40 minute RER ride away from Paris with a castle and a wild forest great for mushroom hunting.
Saint-Germain-en-Laye also has a beautiful Château and forest, perfect for a more mild winter day.

For more information and to hear some wonderful stories about each of these places, listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and the World Radio Paris website.

Sarkozy Sentenced: The Libyan Cash Scandal That Brought Down a French President

13 October 2025 by Polly Watton

General

france, paris, politics

Nicolas Sarkozy, France’s president from 2007 to 2012, has been sentenced to five years in prison, three of them to be served behind bars, for his role in a secret campaign funding scheme involving Libya. The verdict, delivered on September 25, marks the first time in French history that a former president has been ordered to serve actual prison time, highlighting one of the most significant political scandals of the Fifth Republic.

The case, long considered complicated even to seasoned observers of French politics, centers on the court’s finding that Sarkozy’s 2007 presidential campaign received roughly €50 million from the regime of the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Investigators concluded that the funds were delivered through a network of intermediaries and offshore accounts, with businessmen transporting suitcases of cash from Tripoli to Paris. This allegation shocked France and the world. Sarkozy had not only won the presidency by defeating Socialist Ségolène Royal, but his government later led NATO’s military intervention against Gaddafi’s regime in 2011.

A Decade-Long Investigation

Just days after NATO’s military intervention in Libya, Muammar Gaddafi’s son publicly claimed in a Euronews interview that Nicolas Sarkozy should ‘repay Libya the money he took for his election campaign’ The first documentary evidence, however, surfaced months later, when the investigative outlet Mediapart published files suggesting Sarkozy’s 2007 campaign had been secretly financed by Tripoli. French magistrates then opened a formal investigation that stretched over a decade, gathering thousands of documents, financial records, and witness statements to trace the alleged flow of money.

Sarkozy consistently denied wrongdoing, calling the charges politically motivated. In 2020, he was formally indicted for corruption, illegal campaign financing, and criminal conspiracy. The trial began in January 2025 in Paris and lasted four months. Twelve other defendants stood alongside Sarkozy, including close allies Claude Guéant and Brice Hortefeux, as well as businessmen accused of laundering the money through shell companies and fake contracts.

Courtroom testimony depicted luxury meetings, complex offshore transfers, and the shadow of Gaddafi’s intelligence services over the campaign. On September 25, the judges delivered their verdict, finding Sarkozy guilty of leading a criminal conspiracy. Guéant and Hortefeux also received prison terms, while some other defendants were acquitted.

The Secret Pact with Gaddafi

The court found that Sarkozy’s campaign entered into an agreement with Gaddafi’s regime: Libya would provide financial support, and in return, Sarkozy’s team promised political recognition and favorable conditions for French businesses operating in Libya. Investigators also believe the arrangement may have included an understanding to influence France’s treatment of Abdullah Senussi, Gaddafi’s intelligence chief, who was facing charges in France for the bombing of UTA flight 772 in 1989.

While the full extent of the agreement still remains unclear, the ruling confirmed that the arrangement violated French campaign finance law. France imposes strict limits on campaign contributions. Individuals may donate no more than €7,500, and donations from foreign governments or corporations are strictly prohibited. All contributions must be reported to the National Commission for Campaign Accounts and Political Financing. The court found that Sarkozy’s campaign bypassed these rules entirely, creating a scheme that undermined the transparency and fairness of the election.

A Historic Conviction

Nicolas Sarkozy’s conviction is unprecedented: the first time a French president has been sentenced to prison. The court’s ruling exposes the extraordinary scale of corruption at the heart of his 2007 campaign and marks a defining moment for accountability in French politics.

In response to the verdict, Sarkozy has denied the charges and labeled the ruling a “national humiliation” and a “personal injustice.” He claims that the case is politically motivated and has described the justice system’s decision as a “scandal.”

Some of Sarkozy’s allies have also criticized the verdict, calling the judges unfair and alleging a plot against him. The presiding judge, Nathalie Gavarino, has received death threats, prompting investigations and public condemnations from President Emmanuel Macron and Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin.The trial has ignited a national debate about political accountability and the role of the judiciary. Sarkozy has appealed, but under French law he is expected to begin serving his prison term while the appeal is pending. The former French president will start serving his sentence on October 21, in the famous “VIP quarters” of the Prison de la Santé in central Paris.

September 18 Protests: Get to Know What’s at Play This Thursday

16 September 2025 by Tarek Diouri--Adequin

General

france, paris, politics, protests, society

Just a week after the Bloquons Tout protest movement, the people of France will be back in the streets on September 18^th to express their disagreement with the country’s lawmaking.

Pharmacies, airport and train station workers as well as school teachers and more will helm the bulk of the manifestations.

Taking care of the caretakers

French pharmacies had tried making themselves heard back during the summer holidays, contesting “a death sentence for vulnerable pharmacies”: a decree published on August 6 that reduces the cap on discounts for pharmacies from laboratories, making it harder for pharmacies with lesser funds to purchase and sell generic drugs.

Unions expect the pharmacies to show out for a “historical mobilization”, which is also expected to go on every Saturday starting September 27.

Black Thursday, in the sky and on the ground

Philippe Tabarot, outgoing Minister of Transports, labelled this upcoming strike as a “Black Thursday”, with multiple unions hoping to limit efforts from railway and airport workers.

The largest impact will be felt in the latter category, with multiple of the biggest air traffic control unions, including FO Air France and PNC, calling for workers to strike on Thursday. The SNCTA, the biggest union of the sector, was planning a protest on Thursday, which has since been reported to October.

On the ground, both SNCF and RATP syndicates have called for a strike this Thursday. The unions are mostly contesting the 2026 budget plan, as well as private disloyal competitors, which affect their revenue.

Hectic timing

Other institutions like schools, hospitals and more will also be closed or provide limited services to contest the 2026 budget plan on September 18. But with the nomination of Sebastien Lecornu as fifth Prime Minister under the Macron presidency, this protest intervenes at a strange time in the grand scheme of French politics.

This Thursday will be one of the first big challenges the PM will face, just a week after Bloquons Tout. The actions of the September 18 protests could rock the country much more than last week’s movement, which still saw between 200 and 250 thousand protesters all throughout the country.

To learn more about the September 18 protests, listen to the full World Radio Paris Presents episode

Yellow Vests Echoes: France Readies for September 10 Nationwide Protest

6 September 2025 by Polly Watton

General, Podcast Episodes

france, paris, politics, protest, strike

On September 10, France faces the prospect of a nationwide shutdown. A grassroots movement, circulating on social media for months, is calling for a “Block Everything” protest, drawing comparisons to the Gilets Jaunes uprising in 2018. What has brought this anger to a head, and why now?

A Grassroots Movement Takes Shape

September 10 is shaping up as a test of citizen power in France. Under the banner Bloquons tout, activists are calling for a nationwide shutdown. Public transport, roads and city centers could be blocked. Unlike unions or political parties, this movement has no central leadership. Coordination happens through social media platforms like Telegram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Adding to the tension, the government has scheduled a confidence vote on September 8. In France, Parliament can use a confidence vote to decide whether the Prime Minister and the cabinet still have support. A loss would force the government to resign, underscoring just how politically charged this week will be.

Budget Cuts Spark Fire

At the heart of the unrest is Bayrou’s 2026 budget, which proposes €44 billion in cuts. Key measures include eliminating two public holidays (likely Easter Monday and May 8), freezing welfare benefits and income tax brackets and cutting spending across government departments.

The government frames these measures as necessary to manage France’s finances. France’s national debt is around 113% of GDP, meaning the country owes more than it produces in a year. For comparison, Germany’s debt sits at roughly 62%, while Italy’s is higher at 137%. High debt means more of the government’s money goes to paying interest, leaving less for public services.

Prime Minister Bayrou’s message is simple: “Better to tighten the belt now, rather than wait until Brussels forces harsher measures on us.”

For citizens, however, these cuts feel unfair and humiliating. François Boulo, a prominent figure in the Yellow Vests, told Le Média:

“The straw that broke the camel’s back is the removal of those two holidays. Symbolically, it’s extremely powerful and it’s unleashed anger. The logic of the ‘Bloquons Tout’ movement the same as the Gilets Jaunes: it’s independent, apartisan and trying to unite frustration without letting politicians hijack it.”

Beyond Holidays: Environmental and Health Concerns

Earlier this summer, the Loi Duplomb, an agricultural law backed by France’s largest farmers’ union, reopened the use of previously banned pesticides, weakened environmental oversight, and limited the independence of health and safety regulators. Over two million citizens signed a petition against it, the largest in French parliamentary history.

Adding fuel to the fire, revelations about microplastic contamination in bottled water have highlighted the influence of corporate interests over public health. Austerity, deregulation, and environmental scandals together paint a picture of citizens squeezed while powerful lobbies thrive.

Strikes Across the Country

The unrest is set to continue after September 10. On September 18, several major sectors will strike:

Pharmacies: Many will close over cuts to generic drug discounts, with closures continuing every Saturday starting September 27

Airports: Air traffic controllers and some Air France staff will strike from the morning of September 18 until the night of September 19, potentially delaying or canceling flights

Public transport in Paris: Metro, RER, and buses will be disrupted by union strikes

SNCF trains: Regional and long-distance routes may face delays or cancellations

There is more to September 10 than the holidays removal or the budget cuts. It all comes down to trust. Do citizens still feel protected and heard by their government? A comfortable win for Bayrou in the confidence vote – though unlikely – could give the government cover to implement austerity. A narrow victory or defeat could ignite new waves of unrest.

This week, France is testing the limits of citizen power, and the echoes of the Yellow Vests are unmistakable. Whether September 10 fizzles into isolated protests or sparks something larger, it promises to be a pivotal moment in French politics.

Listen to the full episode of World Radio Paris Presents to hear more about September 10

Best Parks in Paris for Kids to Play This Summer

18 August 2025 by Polly Watton

General, Local Shows

parentalité, parenting in paris, paris, parks

For parents in Paris, summer can be magical… and exhausting. When the kids are bursting with energy and you just need a breather, finding the perfect park can make all the difference. That’s why, on our recent Parentalité episode The Best Playgrounds, Picnics, and Parks in Paris we swapped tips, shared local secrets, and rounded up our favourite green spaces in the city. This guide brings together the best recommendations from that episode, covering everything from quiet, shady spots perfect for toddlers to large parks with lakes and picnic areas.

Large Parks for Day-Long Fun

These parks are built for full days of fun. Wide-open lawns and playgrounds where kids can climb, run, and explore mean toddlers can move safely while older kids have space to roam. With cafés, toilets, and picnic areas on hand, parents can grab a coffee, spread a blanket, and watch the fun unfold. Great for all ages.

Jardin du Luxembourg, the Timeless Favourite

Set in the heart of the very chic 6th arrondissement, this historic garden is elegant and steeped in Parisian charm with classical statues and fountains. It’s perfect for kids thanks to its large and secure playground, puppet theatres, pony rides, and the iconic model boat pond, offering activities that keep children of all ages enchanted.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Located in northeast Paris, the Buttes Chaumont’s dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hidden grottos feel like stepping into an outdoor adventure storybook. Its large playgrounds, diverse greenery and open grassy areas encourage exploration and active play, sparking imaginations.

Parc de la Villette

Energetic and creative, this is Paris’s modern playground haven filled with art, science, and fun. Multiple themed playgrounds, the famous Dragon Slide, interactive gardens, and proximity to Cité des Sciences make it a thrilling day out for all ages.

Parc Montsouris

Located in the 14th arrondissement, Parc Montsouris is one of the largest parks in Paris. Its sloping lawns, lake and multiple playgrounds make it an ideal place for a picnic, a lazy stroll, or a full afternoon of play.

Parc Georges Brassens

This cozy park in the 15th arrondissement offers everything your little family needs: shaded playgrounds, a carousel, and even a weekend book market. It’s also home to urban beekeeping lessons, giving kids a sweet taste of nature inside the city.

Parc Bagatelle

At the heart of the Bois de Boulogne in western Paris, the Parc Bagatelle is all about charm: manicured rose gardens, wide lawns for picnics, and elegant resident peacocks.

Parc Monceau

Found near the elegant 8th arrondissement, Parc Monceau feels like a refined oasis with beautiful statues and winding paths. Its shaded playgrounds are safe and welcoming for younger children, and the family atmosphere lets parents relax while little ones explore.

Bois de Vincennes

On the eastern edge of the city, the Bois de Vincennes is practically a mini countryside. Inside of it is the Parc Floral where you’ll find playgrounds, pony rides, a puppet theater, and even some peacocks wandering around.

The Parc zoologique is another wonderful place to see a wide variety of animals, from giraffes, lions and rhinos to penguins, manatees, otters and more. If you head over to Lac Daumesnil or Lac des Minimes, you can also rent pedal boats or rowboats and spend a great time out on the water.

Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes in the 5th arrondissement is a perfect family escape in Paris. Alongside its beautiful botanical gardens, you’ll find the historic Ménagerie Zoo, the Gallery of Paleontology with towering dinosaur skeletons, and the Natural History Museum full of impressive fossils and gems. A mix of nature, animals, and science!

Smaller Secret Gardens

Sometimes you just need a pocket of green to let the kids burn off some energy. These smaller parks are perfect to let toddlers and younger kids play safely while parents keep an eye on them. Ideal for toddlers and younger children (2–8 years)

Jardin Anne Frank

This small garden feels like a secret oasis in the busy Marais district. Its enclosed playground is ideal for toddlers and younger kids needing a calm, secure spot to play.

Jardin Villemin

Overlooking the lively Canal Saint-Martin, this park buzzes with local Parisian life. A fenced playground provides a safe play zone, while sports areas and the nearby canal invite active families to explore beyond the park.

Jardin Nelson Mandela

Modern, urban, and bright, the playgrounds within Jardin Nelson Mandela, right near Les Halles, pulse with city energy. Safe, rubberized flooring and contemporary climbing frames and slides are ideal for children under 11.

Square Barye

Intimate with beautiful river views, this park is a green pause on the picturesque Île Saint-Louis. The small playground suits little ones perfectly, and the peaceful setting lets parents enjoy a relaxed break while kids play.

Jardin Catherine Labouré

This peaceful garden in the 7th arrondissement feels like a secret. Shady benches, grassy lawns, and even a small vineyard make it a lovely spot for kids to roam and play.

Paris is packed with beautiful parks where your kids can run, play, and explore to their heart’s content. Grab a picnic, don’t forget the sunscreen, and head outside! You’ll be surprised how a simple day in the park can turn into unforgettable family memories.

Discover The World Through AI with An Exhibition at the Jeu de Paume in Paris

12 August 2025 by Tarek Diouri--Adequin

Culture, Events, General

art, exhibition, paris, technology

To better understand the future of artificial intelligence, you must have a grasp on its history. The World Through AI exhibition, taking place at the Jeu de Paume until September 21, provides you with this retrospective through art.

The World Through AI gives 30 artists a space for creation related to those intelligent systems, present in our everyday lives. They express their thoughts on artificial intelligence, covering diverse themes – ethical, cultural, politico-social, ecological and so on – and using a wide array of media such as sculptures, paintings, audio and video recordings… some of which were also created with the assistance of AI.

The show opens with tangible art in a physical space, showing us the material cost of the seemingly intangible AI systems; the very first pieces you will see as you enter the exhibition are sculptures that appear to be rocks. Metamorphism LI, Julian Charrière’s sculptures, are more than that: they are made of artificial lava and melted electronic waste you find in the devices running AI systems.

*Close-up of a sample of “Metamorphism LI”, Julian Charrière’s sculptures present all throughout the first section of the exhibition*

“We wanted to stress the fact that AI is not at all dematerialized technology”, Ada Ackerman, co-curator of the exhibition, said of the “mineralogical cabinet” used to open the exhibition. “We wanted to make the visitors aware that these technologies are very energy-consuming. Not everyone is aware that a simple request from ChatGPT requires [multiple] glasses of water.”

The exhibition balances on a tightrope of art and commentary, sometimes mocking AI for taking items at face-value (Trevor Paglen, The Treachery of Object Recognition), exposing viewers to the silent horrors of the “ghost workers” of the Global South (Meta Office, Behind the Screens of Amazon Mechanical Turks), or inviting visitors to become part of the art themselves.

One of Ada Ackerman’s favorite works in the exhibition, Hito Steyerl’s Mechanical Kurds installation, is one of the latter. “For me, this is also a metaphor of how, with AI today, all words become taggable objects”, she explains. “The people sitting in the benches [of the installation] also become objects to tag. I think it’s a good metaphor of how AI is changing our relationship and our perception of the world.”

The curator believes the latest developments of AI are “a major anthropological and cultural shift” for today’s society. She believes the exhibition is to be treated as an opening point for conversation and an attempt at better understanding artificial intelligence.

🎧 Listen to our entire interview with Ada Ackerman in the full episode of the High-Tech Intermission available on the World Radio Paris website. It is also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other DSPs.

📌 Check out the “The World Through AI” as well. The exhibition will remain available at the Jeu de Paume until September 21, 2025.

Why Does France Shut Down in August?

5 August 2025 by Polly Watton

Culture, General, Podcast Episodes

france, french riviera, normandy, paris

Every summer, a quiet transformation sweeps across France. Cities empty, shops close, and signs reading “Fermé pour congés annuels” appear across windows. But where does everyone go? And why has this annual exodus become so deeply embedded in French culture?

In this episode of WRP Presents, host Héloïse Daniel explores the historical and sociological roots of France’s August shutdown — and takes us on a tour of the landscapes that define the French summer.

A Nation Built on Paid Vacation

France was the first country in the world to legalize paid time off and it shows. Since 1936, when the Popular Front government introduced mandatory vacation days, summer holidays have become more than just time away. They’re a national tradition. Today, French workers enjoy five weeks of paid vacation, and August remains the month when everything from factories to boulangeries closes.

Where Do the French Go on Holiday?

From seaside towns to mountain escapes, where you vacation in France often says something about who you are. Here’s a look at the most popular French holiday destinations:

The French Riviera (or Côte d’Azur)

Luxury, glamour, and sea views define towns like Saint-Tropez, Antibes, Menton or Cannes. But this stretch of Mediterranean coast is also crowded and unapologetically expensive, often attracting celebrities, yacht owners, and wealthy tourists.

The Atlantic Coast

More relaxed and weather-dependent, regions like Brittany, the Landes, Vendée and the Basque Country are ideal for families. With dramatic coastlines and pristine nature, these areas offer cooler temperatures and space to breathe.

Dordogne, Ardèche & Provence

For affordable inland charm, many head to river-rich regions like Dordogne (known for castles and prehistoric caves), Ardèche (perfect for kayaking), or Provence, with its lavender fields and hilltop villages.

Moutain Retreats: The French Alps, Pyrénées and Jura

Mountains aren’t just for winter. In August, Chamonix, Annecy, and Cauterets offer hiking, lake swimming, and quietude. Many French families escape the heat and crowds by heading to higher altitudes.

What If You Stay in the City?

About one-third of French people don’t go on holiday, often due to financial limits or family obligations. But cities like Paris adapt: with Paris Plages, free events like outdoor cinemas, and quiet streets, some residents choose to stay put and enjoy the calm.

August in Paris becomes something of a secret season: quiet streets, empty terraces, the freedom to wander. It’s a kind of inverted holiday, one that belongs only to those who remain.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of World Radio Paris Presents: Why France Shuts Down in August
Available now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

The Best Summer Reads to Brush Up on Your French Culture

12 July 2025 by Polly Watton

General, Literature

books, france, French books, paris, reading, summer

As the heat rises and city streets begin to empty for les vacances, there’s no better time to escape into the pages of a great book, especially one that brings the textures and tensions of France to life.

This summer, the editors and show hosts of World Radio Paris have put together a list of French books, old and new, fiction and fact to help our listeners become better versed in French literary offerings. All available in English translation, these works are perfect for readers eager to explore the richness of French thought, storytelling, and identity.

🎧 Want more recommendations?
Listen to our full episode on World Radio Paris, where we dive deeper into these titles and share why they made the cut. Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or on our website.

The Classics

The Count of Monte Cristo

Alexandre Dumas

If you’re going to start anywhere, start with Dumas. The Count of Monte Cristo is the ultimate summer epic — a saga of betrayal, revenge, and transformation. First published in 1844, it tells the story of Edmond Dantès, a man unjustly imprisoned who emerges to exact a masterful revenge. It’s a page-turner with the heart of a moral fable, still thrilling nearly two centuries on!

Find here

My Father’s Glory

Marcel Pagnol

In this charming memoir of childhood summers in Provence, filmmaker and novelist Marcel Pagnol captures a world of sunlit hills, gentle family rivalries, and the innocent wonder of youth. My Father’s Glory is nostalgia done right — tender, evocative, and tinged with the bittersweet clarity of adulthood looking back.

Get here

Bonjour Tristesse

Françoise Sagan

A novel of startling emotional precision, Bonjour Tristesse was written when Françoise Sagan was just 18. Set on the Riviera, this slim book follows a teenage girl whose lazy summer is disrupted by the arrival of her father’s new lover. Sagan’s prose is cool and cutting; her insights into desire, freedom, and disillusionment feel as fresh now as in 1954.

Get here

Promise at Dawn

Romain Gary

Part memoir, part novelistic fantasia, Promise at Dawn recounts Romain Gary’s extraordinary life, from a boyhood in Lithuania to his career as a diplomat and war hero. At its heart is the figure of his eccentric and loving mother, who believed in his greatness long before the world did. It’s a love story between a mother and son, and a deeply human portrait of ambition and sacrifice.

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The Outsider

Albert Camus

“Mother died today. Or maybe yesterday, I don’t know.” With this famously detached opening, Camus launches one of the most iconic works of 20th-century literature. The Outsider is an unsettling novel about a man who refuses to play by society’s emotional rules. Existentialism made accessible.

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Remembrance of Things Past

Marcel Proust

For the truly ambitious reader, Proust’s 4,000-page masterwork awaits. More than a novel, In Search of Lost Time is a meditation on memory, desire, and the passage of time. It’s famously dense but ultimately one of literature’s most rewarding journeys.

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Contemporary Fiction

Small Country

Gaël Faye

Set in Burundi on the eve of civil war, this lyrical debut by rapper-turned-author Gaël Faye explores childhood, exile, and the loss of innocence. Narrated by a young boy caught between cultures, Small Country is a compact novel with a poetic emotional reach.

Find here

What the Day Owes the Night

Yasmina Khadra

In this sweeping historical novel, Khadra — the pen name of former Algerian army officer Mohammed Moulessehoul — examines colonial Algeria through the life of Younes, a boy raised by a French family while his country moves toward independence. A story of cultural fracture, doomed love, and conflicted identity.

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The Yellow Eyes of Crocodiles

Katherine Pancol

With wit and warmth, Pancol’s bestseller follows two very different sisters navigating modern life in Paris — one insecure and struggling, the other effortlessly glamorous. A delicious slice of contemporary French society.

Find here

My Husband

Maud Ventura

A hit in France and newly available in English, My Husband is a darkly comic tale of obsession disguised as devotion. Behind the seemingly perfect marriage lies a narrator whose neuroses and routines spiral into something far more disturbing. A sharp psychological novel that tears down the myth of marital bliss.

Get here

Non-Fiction

Moveable Feasts: Paris in Twenty Meals

Chris Newens

Chris takes us on a delicious journey through every arrondissement of Paris, uncovering the multicultural dishes and personal food stories that define modern Parisian cuisine. Perfect if you want to learn more about French food culture beyond the clichés!

Listen to our interview with the author here
Get the book here

The Other Paris

Lucy Sante

Forget the Eiffel Tower. Lucy Sante uncovers the shadowy, rebellious underside of the City of Light. From thieves and revolutionaries to poets and prostitutes, The Other Paris is a social history that highlights the city’s underclass.

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Sex and Lies

Leïla Slimani

In Sex and Lies, Leïla Slimani interviews Moroccan women about sexuality, repression, and freedom. It’s nonfiction, but it reads like a collection of secret confessions. Slimani is one of the most important voices in French literature today. This is a must-read if you’re interested in the intersection of gender, politics, and culture in the Francophone world.

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A Brief History of France

Cecil Jenkins

For readers seeking context, Jenkins offers a concise and engaging guide through centuries of French history. From the Gauls to the Republic, this book is accessible without being simplistic and is the perfect crash course in understanding the country’s political and cultural DNA.

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How to Be Authentic: Simone de Beauvoir and the Quest for Fulfillment

Skye Cleary

Simone de Beauvoir — philosopher, writer, feminist icon — gets a fresh interpretation in this thoughtful book by Skye Cleary. Drawing on The Second Sex and her complex relationship with Sartre, Cleary explores what it means to live an “authentic” life. This is a compelling introduction to one of France’s most famous intellectuals.

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Cinema Under the Stars: Where to Watch Outdoor Films in France This Summer

8 July 2025 by Polly Watton

Culture, Events, General

cinema, france, nightlife, paris, summer

There’s something timeless about watching a film outdoors. The warmth of the evening, the hum of the crowd, the glow of the screen under a darkening sky, it’s cinematic in its own right! And in France, where cinema isn’t just entertainment but a cultural institution, cinéma en plein air (open-air cinema) has become one of the country’s most beloved summer traditions.

While Americans may associate summer movie nights with drive-ins, France took a different path. The first outdoor screenings here date back to the early 20th century, often tied to village festivals or local fairs. After World War II, the idea took hold more widely, particularly in the 1950s and ’60s, with public parks, squares, and cultural venues becoming regular summer cinemas. Today, open-air screenings are more popular than ever, offering Hollywood blockbusters and French classics alike!

From rooftops in Paris to seaside towns along the Riviera, open-air screenings pop up across the country, bringing together communities, tourists, and film lovers alike. Here’s our curated list of some of the most exciting open-air cinema events happening across the country this summer — from Paris to Normandy to the Côte d’Azur.

In and Around Paris

La Seine Musicale – Boulogne-Billancourt | July 15–18

Music and movies come together at this riverside venue. The evenings kick off with live DJ sets, followed by films like The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Blues Brothers and Saturday Night Fever.
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La Villette Outdoor Cinema | July 23 – August 17

A true summer tradition in Paris. Every evening offers a double bill: a family-friendly film early on, and a crowd favorite after dark. This year’s lineup includes La La Land, Grease, Barbie, and The Wizard of Oz. Bring a blanket and come early!
Check out the full program

Bar à Bulles Rooftop at the Moulin Rouge | Fridays, June–September

Tucked behind the famous cabaret, this rooftop bar hosts indie film screenings in an intimate setting.
All information here

Rooftop Cinema at Hôtel Paradiso | June–September

France’s first cinema-hotel brings a curated film program to its rooftop all summer long. With a drink in hand and the Paris skyline in view, it’s one of the more stylish ways to watch a movie.
Book your ticket here

Gare aux Docs | July 4 – August 30

This free festival takes place on the old tracks of the Petite Ceinture railway, an unusual setting for a lineup of documentaries on environmental issues.
Find out more

La Monnaie de Paris | July 23–26

Set in the courtyard of the historic Paris Mint, this four-night event features large-scale films like Amadeus, The Count of Monte-Cristo and Inception.
Full lineup here

Vedettes de Paris – Port de Suffren | August 23–27

Screenings take place just below the Eiffel Tower at 10:30 PM on the pier of the boat company Vedettes de Paris. A magic and unforgettable location.
More information here

Ciné-voisins | July 17–27

A grassroots, community event in the 12th and 20th arrondissements, with films like Azur & Asmar, Respect, and Jalsaghar.
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On the French Riviera

Villefranche-sur-Mer | June 28 – September 12

Screenings start at 9:30 PM every evening, with ticketing from 8:45. The setting is right on the waterfront, it simply couldn’t be more picturesque! Riviera summer at its finest.
More information here

Beaulieu-sur-Mer | July 7 – August 26

Another daily screening series with a mix of new releases and family-friendly films, all set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
Find out more

Nice | Through August 23

This city-wide program features open-air screenings across various neighborhoods. Films on the lineup include Finding Nemo, The Big Blue, Top Gun: Maverick, and Astérix: Mission Cléopâtre. Ideal for families and tourists.
Full program here

In Normandy

Ciné & Patrimoine – Calvados | Through September

Pairing cinema with cultural heritage, this series hosts film nights in historic locations like the Villa Montebello in Trouville-sur-Mer and the Manoir du Désert in Honfleur. A beautifully curated way to experience both film and local history.
Find out more

Mon Quartier d’Été – Caen | August 20 – September 13

Local parks across Caen turn into open-air cinemas, showing family favorites like My Neighbor Totoro, The Princess and the Frog, and Wonka. A family-friendly way to end the summer.
More info here

🎧 Looking for more on France’s cinema culture? In Episode 18 of Lost in Frenchlation, we dive into Paris’s legendary movie theaters and what makes French filmgoing so special.