Illuminating engrossing & full of surprises The Discovery of France is a literary exploration of a country few will recognize; from maps & migration to magic language & landscape it's a book that reveals the 'real' past of France to tell the whole story -- & history -- of this remarkable nation. ' With gloriously apposite facts & an abundance of quirky anecdotes & thumbnail sketches of people places & customs Robb on brilliant form takes us on a stunning journey through the historical landscape of France' Independent ' Certain books strain the patience of those close to you. How many times can you demand: Look at this! Can you imagine? Did you know that?" without actually handing over the volume? This is such a book' Mail on Sunday ' An extraordinary journey of discovery that will delight even the most indolent armchair traveller' Daily Telegraph"