La Vie

Set against the idyllic backdrop of the French countryside, La Vie by John Lewis-Stempel is a captivating memoir that transports readers into a world of rustic charm and pastoral beauty. Renowned for his profound connection to nature, Lewis-Stempel embarks on a heartfelt journey as he purchases an old farmhouse nestled in the Charente region. This picturesque setting, with its red terracotta rooftops and weathered white walls, becomes the canvas for a new chapter in his life.

As Lewis-Stempel and his family settle into their sun-kissed home, he immerses himself in the traditions and rhythms of the French rural lifestyle. The daily routine is punctuated by the pleasant hum of the local baker’s van, brimming with fresh baguettes, and the sight of a cat lazily navigating the streets near an ancient Romanesque church. The sound of church bells reverberates across the scenic, rolling countryside, adding to the idyllic atmosphere.

Having been a farmer in England for many years, Lewis-Stempel longed to rediscover the simple pleasures of living off the land. His dream was to return to a landscape where the melodic tunes of turtle doves and nightingales could be heard once again, reminiscent of his childhood. But his aspirations didn’t stop there; he aimed to achieve self-sufficiency, cultivate his own vineyards, and uncover the secrets of truffle farming. Thus began the Lewis-Stempels' adventure in their honey-coloured limestone house adorned with bright blue shutters.

The first year in the French countryside is one of growth and enchantment for Lewis-Stempel. He falls deeply in love with his surroundings, finding joy in the sight of wild boar wandering past the kitchen window and the soft glow of glow-worms illuminated by citronella candles in the evening garden. Initially a practical pursuit, their venture transforms into a passionate affair with the French way of life. Adaptations come naturally, from learning to savour the crispy end of a morning baguette to embracing the leisurely two-hour lunches that define the local culture.

La Vie encapsulates the essence of living the good life—la vie—which, for Lewis-Stempel, means cherishing the simple, profound pleasures found in every aspect of rural French existence. His narrative is a joyous escape into a world where time slows down, and nature’s wonders become a central part of daily life. It is a perfect read for those who yearn for a slice of escapist delight and anyone who dreams of a life spent in harmony with nature.