We Could Almost Eat Outside: An Appreciation of Life's Small Pleasures : Book Review

"We Could Almost Eat Outside" by Philippe Delerm is a delightful collection of short essays that beautifully encapsulates the essence of everyday moments and experiences. Delerm's writing style is simple, yet remarkably evocative, allowing readers to vividly picture the scenes he describes. Divided into four sections, each representing a different season, the book takes readers on a sensory journey, highlighting the unique sensations and activities associated with each time of year.

In the spring section, Delerm skillfully captures the anticipation and hopefulness that come with the arrival of warmer weather. Through his vivid descriptions, readers can almost smell the fragrant flowers, hear the birds chirping, and feel the softness of fresh-cut grass. It's like a breath of fresh air after a long, dreary winter.

Transitioning into summer, Delerm focuses on the joy of leisurely activities and the simple pleasures that this season brings. Whether it's lounging in the shade with a good book or indulging in a sweet treat from an ice cream truck, the essays in this section overflow with nostalgia and a warm sense of contentment. Delerm's ability to find beauty in the ordinary is truly captivating.

As autumn arrives, the atmosphere in Delerm's essays shifts to one of reflection and comfort. He revels in the vibrant colors of the changing leaves, the cozy embrace of sweaters, and the enticing aroma of fall dishes. Through his musings on the passage of time, readers can't help but feel the bittersweet emotions that come with the closing of another year. It's a gentle reminder to appreciate the fleeting beauty of this season.

The winter section is filled with essays that capture the magic and enchantment of the holiday season. Delerm's descriptions of twinkling lights, snow-covered landscapes, and the joyous gatherings of loved ones create a sense of warmth and happiness that is simply irresistible. These essays make for the perfect read while curled up by the fire with a steaming cup of hot cocoa.

What are readers saying?

"We Could Almost Eat Outside" by Philippe Delerm has sparked a diverse range of opinions among readers. This book, which centers around finding joy in the simple details of everyday life, has garnered both acclaim and criticism.

Many readers praised Delerm's ability to capture the essence of ordinary moments, appreciating his poetic and beautifully written prose. They found his keen eye for observation to be both nostalgic and reflective, prompting them to consider their own experiences. These individuals found the book to be a delightful read that helped them appreciate the small pleasures in life.

However, there were also readers who found the book lacking in substance. They felt the author's observations were shallow and did not provide any profound insights. Some critics also found the book repetitive and devoid of a compelling plot, hindering their ability to stay engaged. They expressed a desire for more depth and complexity in Delerm's writing.

A common theme among reviewers was the book's ability to evoke emotions. Many readers felt a sense of joy and contentment while reading Delerm's descriptions, applauding his ability to find beauty in the simplicity of life. They appreciated how the book reminded them to slow down and cherish life's pleasures.

Conversely, some readers found the book's focus on the everyday mundane, leading to monotony. They desired more variety and excitement in the author's observations, feeling that the book lacked direction and became repetitive in its themes.

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