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ABOUT THE BOOK:-
In 1944 the British War Office distributed a handbook to British soldiers informing them what to expect and how to behave in a newly-liberated France. Containing candid descriptions of this war-ravaged society (widespread malnourishment, rampant tuberculosis) as well as useful phrases and a pronunciation guide (Bonjewer, commont-allay-voo), it was an indispensable guide to everyday life. This small, unassuming publication had a deeper purpose: to bring together two allies who did not enjoy ideal relations in 1944. The book attempts to reconcile differences by stressing a shared history and the common aim - defeating Hitler. It also tried to dispel misapprehensions: `There is a fairly widespread belief among people in Britain that the French are a particularly gay, frivolous people with no morals and few convictions.` Often unintentionally hilarious in its expression of these false impressions, the book is also a guide for avoiding social embarrassment: `If you should happen to imagine that the first pretty French girl who smiles at you intends to dance the can-can or take you to bed, you will risk stirring up a lot of trouble for yourself - and for our relations with the French.` Many of its observations still ring true today. For example, `The French are more polite than most of us. Remember to call them "Monsieur, Madame, Mademoiselle," not just "Oy!"` Others remind us of how we recently we have adopted French customs: `Don`t drink yourself silly. If you get the chance to drink wine, learn to "`take it".` Anyone with an interest in Britain, France or World War II will find this an irresistible insight into British attitudes towards the French and an interesting, timeless commentary on Anglo-French relations.ISBN - 9781851243358
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