Forget a single story. This book is a literary scrapbook from William Makepeace Thackeray's time living in Paris. Using the pen name Mr. M. A. Titmarsh, he acts as our slightly sarcastic but always curious tour guide. We follow him from the grand Louvre to cramped print shops, from fancy parties to simple street scenes. He reviews art exhibits with a critical eye, pokes fun at French and English customs, and shares anecdotes about the people he meets. It’s a snapshot of a city buzzing with life, politics, and art, all filtered through Thackeray’s wonderfully opinionated perspective.

Why You Should Read It

You get to watch a great writer practice. This is early Thackeray, before Vanity Fair made him famous. His humor is here—dry, clever, and often aimed at himself as much as others. The sketches feel fresh and immediate, like he’s jotting down his thoughts just for you. I loved how he describes paintings; you can almost see them. He doesn't just tell you about Paris, he makes you feel the cobblestones and smell the café air. It’s history that doesn’t feel dusty.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who want a personal touch, fans of travel writing, or anyone who enjoys classic British wit. If you prefer fast-paced plots, this might move too slowly. But if you like to wander and people-watch, even across centuries, Mr. Titmarsh is the perfect companion. Think of it as a long, brilliant conversation with a very observant friend over a good cup of coffee.