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Screenwise Verdict
This Is Paris is a gorgeous artifact—Sasek's illustrations are genuinely beautiful, and the book has earned its place as a classic. But let's be real: it's a 1959 travelogue, and modern kids raised on fast-paced stories and interactive media may find it...slow.
It's perfect for the right kid—the one who loves maps, asks about faraway places, or gets lost in Where's Waldo-style details. It's also a lovely bedtime book because there's zero tension, just pretty pictures and gentle observations.
But if your kid needs plot, characters, or any kind of narrative momentum, this will sit on the shelf. It's more of a 'look at this beautiful thing' experience than a 'read this story' one. Worth having if you're building a library of quality picture books, but don't expect it to become a nightly favorite unless your kid is wired for visual exploration.
Age Fit
Best for ages 4-9, especially kids who love art, maps, or travel. Younger kids can enjoy the pictures; older elementary kids can read the simple text and absorb the cultural details. Teens and adults won't pick this up unless they're nostalgic or design nerds.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
88
A gentle, observational tour of Paris through the eyes of a Czech painter. The tone is warm and affectionate, celebrating everyday life—artists, concierges, flower sellers, cats. No conflict, no drama, just a loving portrait of a city. The 'hint of mischievousness' mentioned in reviews suggests personality without edge.
Imaginative
82
Sasek's illustrated travel books are known for their detailed, luscious artwork that captures architectural beauty and street-level life. The book invites visual exploration—touring the Seine, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower—through an artist's lens. It's more observational than interactive, but the richness of detail sparks curiosity about place and culture.
Safe
98
This is a vintage children's picture book about Paris landmarks and daily life. No violence, no scary content, no mature themes. The only minor consideration is that it's a 1959 book updated for the 21st century, so some cultural depictions may feel dated, but nothing problematic or unsafe.
Enriching
79
Solid geography and cultural education—kids learn about Paris architecture, museums, daily life, and French culture through beautiful illustrations. The simple, clean text is informative. However, it's more of a visual travelogue than a narrative with deep themes or character development. Good for broadening horizons, less so for emotional or ethical growth.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Exquisitely detailed illustrations that capture Paris architecture, street life, and charm
Gentle introduction to geography and cultural appreciation for young kids
Part of Sasek's beloved 'This Is...' series covering cities worldwide—great for kids who love travel or maps
High Amazon rating (4.8/5) suggests parents genuinely appreciate the quality
No plot, no drama, no conflict—just a peaceful visual tour
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What to Watch For
This is a 1959 book 'updated for the 21st century,' so expect a vintage vibe—some kids will find it charming, others will find it sleepy
It's more of a browsing book than a sit-down story—works better as a coffee-table flip-through or bedtime wind-down
Kids expecting action or narrative will be bored; this is for the artsy, curious, or travel-obsessed
Conversation Starters
"If you could visit Paris, what would you want to see first—the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or a sidewalk café?"
"The book shows lots of everyday people like flower sellers and concierges. What jobs do you see in our neighborhood every day?"
"Sasek painted thousands of cats in Paris. Why do you think cities have so many cats (or pigeons, or squirrels)?"
