Untold Paris

Untold Paris is a unique illustrated guide to Paris – its people, quirks, peculiarities, charms and eccentricities, as well as its history and some of its many secrets.



Nobody knows the city of light like Paris resident and travel writer John Baxter – and nobody is able to write about its culture quite so intriguingly. Let him guide you around the Paris you’ve always wanted to know.

How was Ernest Hemingway received by the city he wrote so much about, and where did he rub shoulders with other literary greats? Are Parisian waiters really as rude as their reputation, and why do they race each other down the street in the annual Course des Garcons de Café? And where can you find fascinating remnants of the city’s history of violent revolution, jazz music, and bold artistic movements?

From the reality of the city’s café culture and its literary luminaries, to some of its more curious landmarks, obscure events and unusual inhabitants, Untold Paris will give the first-time visitor a vivid impression of the city and offer seasoned travellers a new vision of the city they love.

The people, the quirks, peculiarities, charms and eccentricities; the history and secrets. Welcome to the untold Paris.

Praise for John Baxter's previous work:

We'll Always Have Paris: Sex and Love in the City of Light – "towers above most recent memoirs of life abroad" Sunday Times.

The Perfect Meal: In Search of the Lost Tastes of France – International Association of Culinary Professionals Award, “Full of humor, insight, and mouth-watering details… a delightful tour of traditional French culture and cuisine.” Travel and Leisure.

Eating Eternity: Food and Wine in the Art and Literature of France – "Gorgeous" New York Times