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Vidalia in Paris
When Vidalia wins a scholarship to study art abroad for the summer, she can’t believe her good fortune. Paris is filled with surprises, including Julien, the nice bookstore clerk Vidalia should like as more than a friend, and Marco, the mysterious art dealer she can’t stay away from. By the time she finds out the truth about the paintings Marco sells, she’s fallen for him too hard to really care. But when his crimes threaten to involve her directly, Vidalia has to separate reason from passion.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 2, 2009
This book was alright, but I felt like Vidalia had no clear conscience. She doubted herself while stealing, or at least ATTEMPTING to steal, which obviously wasn't helping her.
Why, why, WHY would you ruin your scholarship to PARIS by STEALING to make money? Julian was always there for her, and he was ready to start a relationship with her, but NO, she's got to go and ruin it to be with Marco, who she even knows isn't the best for her. She admits a lot to Julian, but she feels the need to lie about her mother and her life to Marco. She doesn't even find him suspicious, even though he always has money from selling off stolen paintings.
Vidalia doesn't ever think it's weird that her host family is disfunctional. Clara's eyes well up with tears every time she hears that her father's gone away again, and Vidalia can only think about being the "big sister," but in truth, she's too busy with her own life.
And now that she's in art class, she has enough time to worry about Heather and her "suicide attempts" with a needle, but she can't worry about Clara? She didn't even bother to ask if she was okay, which was kind of odd, because Vidalia's own mother has emotional problems herself.
I also felt that Vidalia's mother couldn't have recuperated in such a short time before Vidalia arrived back in America, as to recover from her agoraphobia enough to get out of the house to meet Vidalia.
I was also surprised that the author didn't mention anything about Leonardo Da Vinci's works, or other famous, well known artists, at the Louvre.
Why, why, WHY would you ruin your scholarship to PARIS by STEALING to make money? Julian was always there for her, and he was ready to start a relationship with her, but NO, she's got to go and ruin it to be with Marco, who she even knows isn't the best for her. She admits a lot to Julian, but she feels the need to lie about her mother and her life to Marco. She doesn't even find him suspicious, even though he always has money from selling off stolen paintings.
Vidalia doesn't ever think it's weird that her host family is disfunctional. Clara's eyes well up with tears every time she hears that her father's gone away again, and Vidalia can only think about being the "big sister," but in truth, she's too busy with her own life.
And now that she's in art class, she has enough time to worry about Heather and her "suicide attempts" with a needle, but she can't worry about Clara? She didn't even bother to ask if she was okay, which was kind of odd, because Vidalia's own mother has emotional problems herself.
I also felt that Vidalia's mother couldn't have recuperated in such a short time before Vidalia arrived back in America, as to recover from her agoraphobia enough to get out of the house to meet Vidalia.
I was also surprised that the author didn't mention anything about Leonardo Da Vinci's works, or other famous, well known artists, at the Louvre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2009
This was a fun YA novel. Vidalia, a high school student being raised by a single mother with a bit of a Grey Gardens thing going on, goes to Paris to study art for the summer. This has a great Paris feel that is instantly recognizable if you've ever done the student in Paris thing, from her uncomfortable home stay to visiting the English language bookstore on the place St-Michel to meeting interesting boys. One thing I especially liked about this is that Vidalia makes some choices that aren't so hot, and the results seem realistic and genuine. Thanks to Wendy for recommending this one!
Grade: A-
Recommended: to YA fans who like Paris and art ... although I was a little surprised that there wasn't more art. Maybe that's piggy of me, but there you have it.
(2009/25)
Grade: A-
Recommended: to YA fans who like Paris and art ... although I was a little surprised that there wasn't more art. Maybe that's piggy of me, but there you have it.
(2009/25)
September 17, 2009
After ordering this book from the library, I realized that it was a young adult book. I read it anyway because it was set in Paris. It was an ok read, but I was a little shocked at the subject matter in a so called "young adult" novel. A high school student goes to Paris to study art for the summer. She ends up traveling all around the city on her own, meeting a "bad boy", steals some art, travels to Cannes and breaks into a house to spend the night, and sleeps with the "bad boy". All in all not exactly appropriate "young adult" subject matter (IMHO).
October 28, 2008
A delightful Parisian adventure for teen readers. Buy a copy as a gift. Give a copy to your local library. Set aside an afternoon to savor this title. Vidalia in Paris is Watson's gift to readers. Enjoy!
(Note: a more detailed review will appear in an upcoming issue of VOYA magazine.)
(Note: a more detailed review will appear in an upcoming issue of VOYA magazine.)
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November 6, 20139-14
Vidalia won a scholarship to study art in Paris over the summer w other students. When she landed, she was greeted by her host father and his daughter. They were going to be helping her get around and letting her stay at their place. To her surprise, the Dubois family weren't as warm and welcoming as she has expected. She ate dinner with them and made small talk, but as soon as she got to her room, she went to sleep.
I think Vidalia is jumping to conclusions with the Dubois because she had just got there, and she really didn't try to get to know them. the Dubois seem just as nervous as her about this whole summer. I think they don't want to be too affectionate because the don't want to creep her out or make her uncomfortable. Vidalia is nervous, but it will get better. Vidalia should just open up a little and maybe things will go better.
9-15
Vidalia started her first day in her art class, and it didn't go very well. She came in late which didn't make the professor too happy. She also spilled paint and was told to sketch the rest of the class. After class and lunch, she called her mother, who suggested she go to an English bookstore close by. She agreed and went. While she was there, she met a librarian named Julien who invited her to come to a poetry reading, and Vidalia agreed to stop by.
I think Vidalia's art class is going to get better. It was probably because she was late that nothing really went to well. On the other hand, I think Julien is interested in Vidalia. He exchanged jokes with her and invited her to the reading without even really knowing her. Vidalia is probably interested in him too since she was fairly excited that they made the smallest exchange.
9-16
After visiting the bookstore, Vidalia found her way to the campus where all the other students in her program are in for her afternoon art history class. She had that class with her friend Becky, which made her a little less nervous after making a bad impression in her first class. The class went smoothly and the teacher, Madame Zafar, actually seemed to like Vidalia. Straight after class, Becky invited Vidalia to come to Avignon w/ her and Heather, but she refused considering she had to go to the poetry reading. Becky and even heather were surprised to hear that Vidalia was already getting attention from guys, but Vidalia didn't see it that way.
I feel like Vidalia is opening up more. She should've made plans with Becky and Heather some other time instead of completely declining them. I mean she is going to be in Paris for a while, so she might as well have some fun with friends. I definitely think that her and Julien are going to have a lot of chemistry later on in the story. Its obvious that she might be interested since she didn't turn down the offer to go to the reading. She also refused to do anything else that night but go to the reading.
9-17
At the poetry reading, Vidalia had trouble paying any attention to the actual show. After the show, her and Julien made small talk. Vidalia was surprised at how easy it was to talk to him. Around nine thirty she had gotten back to the apartment where the Dubois were waiting for her with an unexpected guest. He was around Vidalia's age, his name was Marco. Marco asked a lot of questions and made many remarks that Vidalia didn't really like. After just one conversation, she was sure she didn't like Marco at all.
I think Vidalia didn't like Marco because he wasn't as gullible as everyone else was about her lie. She told everyone about how her mother owns an art gallery, and the Dubois believed her. It wasn't fooling marco though. The way Marco spoke and smiled mockingly at her almost made it seem like he knew she was lying. I think Vidalia was just afraid of how blunt Marco came off to be.
9-18
In art class, it didn't go so well again. Vidalia let her creativity get the best of her, and Monsieur Benoit wasn't pleased. He scowled at her sketch of the naked woman in the front of the room and insulted it. On the bright side, Marco had stopped by the American Institute and invited her to a gallery. He said he doesn't know too many people who like art, so Vidalia would make good company since she likes art. She agreed, surprised at how nice Marco actually is.
Marco went out of his way to come and pick up Vidalia without even knowing if shed want to go with him. I think this shows that Marco must be obviously interested in her. The way he made eye contact with her while their faces were so close showed a little bit of romance. I don't think Vidalia has notice this interest, but she most likely will.
10-3
After art history, Madame Zafar asked Vidalia to stay because she needed to speak with her. Thinking it was just going to be about her missing assignment, Vidalia waited nervously. It turned out to be that Madam Zafar had noticed Heather had been a little upset lately, and she wanted Vidalia, who knows her from home, to check up on her. Vidalia tried to explain that her and Heather weren't really the best of friends, but she insisted that she'd at least try. In the courtyard, Vidalia uncomfortably attempted to be friendly with Heather, asked if she was alright and said that if she needed anything she could call her. Heather was just as uncomfortable. After that, Vidalia went off to find a dress for the party Marco had invited her to. She found just the perfect one that Marco seemed to be very fond of. The dress was expensive though, but Marco said he would pay for it. Ignoring what her mother had said about not accepting expensive gifts from men, she agreed. They then went to a beauty salon and she decided to drastically change her hair style. she cut all of it off.
I think Madame Zafar knows that Vidalia and Heather aren't very close anymore, but she wants them to become close again. That's why she sent Vidalia to go try to talk to her instead of Becky or anyone else who got along with Heather. I feel like although it was an awkward situation, Heather will take Vidalia seriously and call her when she needs someone to talk to or something. On the other hand, I'm kind of glad that Vidalia cut her hair so differently because I think she needed a little change in her life. Maybe her haircut will make her more spontaneous and happy since her life at home is more or less dull and unexciting.
10-4
While Vidalia was walking home she got a call from an unknown number. It was Heather, she sounded like she had been crying, and she asked to meet. Vidalia was surprised, but she did so. When she got there Heather looked like she had been crying for a really long time. She asked what was wrong and Heather explained that she doesn't really know. She had just been feeling really down ever since she got to Paris for no reason at all. Vidalia tried to get her mid off things by talking about school and asking her how all her classes were going. After making sure Heather was okay, Vidalia went home and began to get ready for the party. She put her dress on, fixed her hair and make up, but still had time to kill. She decided to call her mother. She seemed to be in a really good mood and was eager to speak to her. They had a long talk about what shed been doing while Vidalia was gone and how Vidalia was doing. Vidalia told her mother about Marco, but didn't mention her staying for an extra 2 weeks to go to Italy with him.
I think the whole conversation Vidalia and Heather had is going to spark their friendship. Although it wasn't really emotional or anything, Heather must have appreciated Vidalia being there for her when she needed someone. They'll probably become friends again. Also Vidalia should tell her mother about her staying in France a little longer sooner. I know she doesn't want to alarm her but its better to tell her now than too wait until its too late and she refuses to let her stay.
10-8
After talking to her mom, Vidalia decided to make her way to her and Marco's meeting spot to go to the party. When they met up, Marco reminded Vidalia of the plan. Knowing that she'd be with Marco, Vidalia wasn't even afraid. They got into the party and hung out for a little bit until it was time to go with the plan. They'd pretend to go to the bathroom and instead go into the room where the paintings were and take a couple. Vidalia would be doing this on her own for the first time, yet she felt as if nothing could go wrong.
I think Marco has taken a really big role in Vidalia's life because he has began to change her. At first, she was guilty and felt bad about stealing one painting, and now she steals several with no hesitation. She's even second guessing going to college because she now feels it's not that important since Marco is good without it. I think Vidalia is letting Marco change her for the worst. They'll probably face some trouble.
10-9
When Vidalia was on her way to the room where the painting was, she heard voices in one of the rooms. As she listened she could hear two women speaking about the party. She heard that one of the women was the hostess of the party herself, Marie Cartier. She seemed to be very upset about how her father wasn't here with her anymore. When Vidalia heard this she couldn't help but feel jealous of her. As she held the painting in her hands, she thought about how awful Marie would feel, and she just couldn't steal from her. She left the painting and went back to Marco empty handed. As they were leaving, Vidalia noticed Monsieur Dubois who was also Marie's partner. Shocked and scared, Vidalia rushed out of the party with Marco at her side.
I think Vidalia did the right thing by not stealing the painting. It really isn't like her at all to be able to steal things and not feel anything. I think that even if Marco is changing her state of mind on some things he still cant fully control her and how she feels. I think Vidalia is also finding out why the Dubois are so distant from her and each other. Madame Dubois probably knows about her husbands affair but cant say anything because of Clara.
10-11
On that Monday, Vidalia was still shaken. She couldn't get her mind off Monsieur Dubois, Marie Catier or Marco. When she began to paint though, she was able to relax her mind and focus on her painting. After art history Madame Zafar told Vidalia that Heather had a breakdown. She hadn't come home that Friday night that they spoke, and she was now in a medical clinic. She said she wanted to see Vidilia. Heather was pretty banged up when Vidalia went to see her. She could tell that she was tired and weary. Heather told her that the scratches on her arm were nothing but cuts she made her self and not a suicide attempt. she had asked Vidalia to come and no one else because she was the only person who she wouldn't feel weird around.
I think Heather actually wants to have a new friendship with Vidalia. She must care in some way if the only person from school she wanted to see was Vidalia and no one else. I think Heather probably trusts Vidalia as much as she used to when she was little. They have an ever lasting bond although it might've faded.
10-12
When Vidalia came home, the Dubois were home from the country. Madame said that Monseiour Dubois would be coming home that night, which made Vidalia kind of nervous. The next morning he didn't seem to recognize Vidalia from the party. That morning Vidalia was eexcused from art history to go and visit Heather with her parents. On her way there her mother called crying because she had gotten a piece of glass stuck in her hand, and she couldn't go to the hospital. Since it was and emergency, she called aunt pat who told her her mothers mental health was very bad.
I think Vidalia's going to have to confront Monseiour Dubois about what she saw on Friday. Shell have to probably give him and explination to why she was there but it's better than being confused. Her mom on the other hand is obviously not mentally stable. Vidalia should've stopped ignoring the problem and dealt with it before she left to Paris.
10-13
Vidalia made sure her mom was ok and went on to the clinic. When she got there Heather's parents still hadn't arrived. When they did they greeted both Vidalia and Heather warmly. They all went to lunch after discharging Heather from the hospital. After lunch Vidalia met up with Marco and all the distance she had been feeling from him went away. He asked to keep one of her sketches of her piece from her art class to put on his wall. After that week, Vidalia decided to stop by the bookstore to visit Julien, but he wasn't there. Margie said he was with his new girlfriend Katarina.
I think Marco is going to take Vidalia's painting to sell it instead of keep it to himself. It's not the first time he steals art obviously. On the other hand, due to how Margie was eyeing Vidalia, she probably wanted her to say something about Julien and Katarina. Vidalia had already set things straight with him though, so I don't thing she cares too much.
10-14
Vidalia was on her last week of her art class and the painting was finally coming together. Monsieur Benoit even gave her some pointers on how to make the paint compliment the drawing better. After class, she was surprised to see Marco waiting at the Metro for her. He had said he wanted to go to lunch before her next class and asked to see her painting. He was very impressed by it. He convinced her to ditch art history and stay with him at little longer to tell her about his new plan to steal a painting to pay for their whole trip to Italy.
I think Vidalia is really learning in her art class eventhough she felt as if she wasn't really meant to be there. After seeing the painting I don't think marco will be able to do anything with it because hes actually proud of Vidalia.
10-16
On Friday Vidalia was done with her painting. She went out to lunch with her class mates then went off to art history. Madame Zafar told her that Monsieur Benoit was very impressed by her progress. When she got home, she was alone and Dubois mmysterious brief case was opened in the bedroom. She curiously began to look through it and was surprised to find her sketch she had given marco. Marco was planning to steal the painting from the that same day. She called Julien and told him where shed be, although he wasn't very interested in talking to her. Once her heard how upset she was, he began to worry.
I think Vidalia is going to catch Marco stealing her painting with Monsieur Dubois. Shes become very upset. She probably feels as if everything she had with Marco was a lie just to get close to the museum and get information.
Vidalia won a scholarship to study art in Paris over the summer w other students. When she landed, she was greeted by her host father and his daughter. They were going to be helping her get around and letting her stay at their place. To her surprise, the Dubois family weren't as warm and welcoming as she has expected. She ate dinner with them and made small talk, but as soon as she got to her room, she went to sleep.
I think Vidalia is jumping to conclusions with the Dubois because she had just got there, and she really didn't try to get to know them. the Dubois seem just as nervous as her about this whole summer. I think they don't want to be too affectionate because the don't want to creep her out or make her uncomfortable. Vidalia is nervous, but it will get better. Vidalia should just open up a little and maybe things will go better.
9-15
Vidalia started her first day in her art class, and it didn't go very well. She came in late which didn't make the professor too happy. She also spilled paint and was told to sketch the rest of the class. After class and lunch, she called her mother, who suggested she go to an English bookstore close by. She agreed and went. While she was there, she met a librarian named Julien who invited her to come to a poetry reading, and Vidalia agreed to stop by.
I think Vidalia's art class is going to get better. It was probably because she was late that nothing really went to well. On the other hand, I think Julien is interested in Vidalia. He exchanged jokes with her and invited her to the reading without even really knowing her. Vidalia is probably interested in him too since she was fairly excited that they made the smallest exchange.
9-16
After visiting the bookstore, Vidalia found her way to the campus where all the other students in her program are in for her afternoon art history class. She had that class with her friend Becky, which made her a little less nervous after making a bad impression in her first class. The class went smoothly and the teacher, Madame Zafar, actually seemed to like Vidalia. Straight after class, Becky invited Vidalia to come to Avignon w/ her and Heather, but she refused considering she had to go to the poetry reading. Becky and even heather were surprised to hear that Vidalia was already getting attention from guys, but Vidalia didn't see it that way.
I feel like Vidalia is opening up more. She should've made plans with Becky and Heather some other time instead of completely declining them. I mean she is going to be in Paris for a while, so she might as well have some fun with friends. I definitely think that her and Julien are going to have a lot of chemistry later on in the story. Its obvious that she might be interested since she didn't turn down the offer to go to the reading. She also refused to do anything else that night but go to the reading.
9-17
At the poetry reading, Vidalia had trouble paying any attention to the actual show. After the show, her and Julien made small talk. Vidalia was surprised at how easy it was to talk to him. Around nine thirty she had gotten back to the apartment where the Dubois were waiting for her with an unexpected guest. He was around Vidalia's age, his name was Marco. Marco asked a lot of questions and made many remarks that Vidalia didn't really like. After just one conversation, she was sure she didn't like Marco at all.
I think Vidalia didn't like Marco because he wasn't as gullible as everyone else was about her lie. She told everyone about how her mother owns an art gallery, and the Dubois believed her. It wasn't fooling marco though. The way Marco spoke and smiled mockingly at her almost made it seem like he knew she was lying. I think Vidalia was just afraid of how blunt Marco came off to be.
9-18
In art class, it didn't go so well again. Vidalia let her creativity get the best of her, and Monsieur Benoit wasn't pleased. He scowled at her sketch of the naked woman in the front of the room and insulted it. On the bright side, Marco had stopped by the American Institute and invited her to a gallery. He said he doesn't know too many people who like art, so Vidalia would make good company since she likes art. She agreed, surprised at how nice Marco actually is.
Marco went out of his way to come and pick up Vidalia without even knowing if shed want to go with him. I think this shows that Marco must be obviously interested in her. The way he made eye contact with her while their faces were so close showed a little bit of romance. I don't think Vidalia has notice this interest, but she most likely will.
10-3
After art history, Madame Zafar asked Vidalia to stay because she needed to speak with her. Thinking it was just going to be about her missing assignment, Vidalia waited nervously. It turned out to be that Madam Zafar had noticed Heather had been a little upset lately, and she wanted Vidalia, who knows her from home, to check up on her. Vidalia tried to explain that her and Heather weren't really the best of friends, but she insisted that she'd at least try. In the courtyard, Vidalia uncomfortably attempted to be friendly with Heather, asked if she was alright and said that if she needed anything she could call her. Heather was just as uncomfortable. After that, Vidalia went off to find a dress for the party Marco had invited her to. She found just the perfect one that Marco seemed to be very fond of. The dress was expensive though, but Marco said he would pay for it. Ignoring what her mother had said about not accepting expensive gifts from men, she agreed. They then went to a beauty salon and she decided to drastically change her hair style. she cut all of it off.
I think Madame Zafar knows that Vidalia and Heather aren't very close anymore, but she wants them to become close again. That's why she sent Vidalia to go try to talk to her instead of Becky or anyone else who got along with Heather. I feel like although it was an awkward situation, Heather will take Vidalia seriously and call her when she needs someone to talk to or something. On the other hand, I'm kind of glad that Vidalia cut her hair so differently because I think she needed a little change in her life. Maybe her haircut will make her more spontaneous and happy since her life at home is more or less dull and unexciting.
10-4
While Vidalia was walking home she got a call from an unknown number. It was Heather, she sounded like she had been crying, and she asked to meet. Vidalia was surprised, but she did so. When she got there Heather looked like she had been crying for a really long time. She asked what was wrong and Heather explained that she doesn't really know. She had just been feeling really down ever since she got to Paris for no reason at all. Vidalia tried to get her mid off things by talking about school and asking her how all her classes were going. After making sure Heather was okay, Vidalia went home and began to get ready for the party. She put her dress on, fixed her hair and make up, but still had time to kill. She decided to call her mother. She seemed to be in a really good mood and was eager to speak to her. They had a long talk about what shed been doing while Vidalia was gone and how Vidalia was doing. Vidalia told her mother about Marco, but didn't mention her staying for an extra 2 weeks to go to Italy with him.
I think the whole conversation Vidalia and Heather had is going to spark their friendship. Although it wasn't really emotional or anything, Heather must have appreciated Vidalia being there for her when she needed someone. They'll probably become friends again. Also Vidalia should tell her mother about her staying in France a little longer sooner. I know she doesn't want to alarm her but its better to tell her now than too wait until its too late and she refuses to let her stay.
10-8
After talking to her mom, Vidalia decided to make her way to her and Marco's meeting spot to go to the party. When they met up, Marco reminded Vidalia of the plan. Knowing that she'd be with Marco, Vidalia wasn't even afraid. They got into the party and hung out for a little bit until it was time to go with the plan. They'd pretend to go to the bathroom and instead go into the room where the paintings were and take a couple. Vidalia would be doing this on her own for the first time, yet she felt as if nothing could go wrong.
I think Marco has taken a really big role in Vidalia's life because he has began to change her. At first, she was guilty and felt bad about stealing one painting, and now she steals several with no hesitation. She's even second guessing going to college because she now feels it's not that important since Marco is good without it. I think Vidalia is letting Marco change her for the worst. They'll probably face some trouble.
10-9
When Vidalia was on her way to the room where the painting was, she heard voices in one of the rooms. As she listened she could hear two women speaking about the party. She heard that one of the women was the hostess of the party herself, Marie Cartier. She seemed to be very upset about how her father wasn't here with her anymore. When Vidalia heard this she couldn't help but feel jealous of her. As she held the painting in her hands, she thought about how awful Marie would feel, and she just couldn't steal from her. She left the painting and went back to Marco empty handed. As they were leaving, Vidalia noticed Monsieur Dubois who was also Marie's partner. Shocked and scared, Vidalia rushed out of the party with Marco at her side.
I think Vidalia did the right thing by not stealing the painting. It really isn't like her at all to be able to steal things and not feel anything. I think that even if Marco is changing her state of mind on some things he still cant fully control her and how she feels. I think Vidalia is also finding out why the Dubois are so distant from her and each other. Madame Dubois probably knows about her husbands affair but cant say anything because of Clara.
10-11
On that Monday, Vidalia was still shaken. She couldn't get her mind off Monsieur Dubois, Marie Catier or Marco. When she began to paint though, she was able to relax her mind and focus on her painting. After art history Madame Zafar told Vidalia that Heather had a breakdown. She hadn't come home that Friday night that they spoke, and she was now in a medical clinic. She said she wanted to see Vidilia. Heather was pretty banged up when Vidalia went to see her. She could tell that she was tired and weary. Heather told her that the scratches on her arm were nothing but cuts she made her self and not a suicide attempt. she had asked Vidalia to come and no one else because she was the only person who she wouldn't feel weird around.
I think Heather actually wants to have a new friendship with Vidalia. She must care in some way if the only person from school she wanted to see was Vidalia and no one else. I think Heather probably trusts Vidalia as much as she used to when she was little. They have an ever lasting bond although it might've faded.
10-12
When Vidalia came home, the Dubois were home from the country. Madame said that Monseiour Dubois would be coming home that night, which made Vidalia kind of nervous. The next morning he didn't seem to recognize Vidalia from the party. That morning Vidalia was eexcused from art history to go and visit Heather with her parents. On her way there her mother called crying because she had gotten a piece of glass stuck in her hand, and she couldn't go to the hospital. Since it was and emergency, she called aunt pat who told her her mothers mental health was very bad.
I think Vidalia's going to have to confront Monseiour Dubois about what she saw on Friday. Shell have to probably give him and explination to why she was there but it's better than being confused. Her mom on the other hand is obviously not mentally stable. Vidalia should've stopped ignoring the problem and dealt with it before she left to Paris.
10-13
Vidalia made sure her mom was ok and went on to the clinic. When she got there Heather's parents still hadn't arrived. When they did they greeted both Vidalia and Heather warmly. They all went to lunch after discharging Heather from the hospital. After lunch Vidalia met up with Marco and all the distance she had been feeling from him went away. He asked to keep one of her sketches of her piece from her art class to put on his wall. After that week, Vidalia decided to stop by the bookstore to visit Julien, but he wasn't there. Margie said he was with his new girlfriend Katarina.
I think Marco is going to take Vidalia's painting to sell it instead of keep it to himself. It's not the first time he steals art obviously. On the other hand, due to how Margie was eyeing Vidalia, she probably wanted her to say something about Julien and Katarina. Vidalia had already set things straight with him though, so I don't thing she cares too much.
10-14
Vidalia was on her last week of her art class and the painting was finally coming together. Monsieur Benoit even gave her some pointers on how to make the paint compliment the drawing better. After class, she was surprised to see Marco waiting at the Metro for her. He had said he wanted to go to lunch before her next class and asked to see her painting. He was very impressed by it. He convinced her to ditch art history and stay with him at little longer to tell her about his new plan to steal a painting to pay for their whole trip to Italy.
I think Vidalia is really learning in her art class eventhough she felt as if she wasn't really meant to be there. After seeing the painting I don't think marco will be able to do anything with it because hes actually proud of Vidalia.
10-16
On Friday Vidalia was done with her painting. She went out to lunch with her class mates then went off to art history. Madame Zafar told her that Monsieur Benoit was very impressed by her progress. When she got home, she was alone and Dubois mmysterious brief case was opened in the bedroom. She curiously began to look through it and was surprised to find her sketch she had given marco. Marco was planning to steal the painting from the that same day. She called Julien and told him where shed be, although he wasn't very interested in talking to her. Once her heard how upset she was, he began to worry.
I think Vidalia is going to catch Marco stealing her painting with Monsieur Dubois. Shes become very upset. She probably feels as if everything she had with Marco was a lie just to get close to the museum and get information.
July 23, 2014
Ah where do I even start with this one? This book is honestly a total gamble - you'll either enjoy it or you won't, there's really no other option. And I understand both reactions, despite the fact that I found this one enjoyable.
"Vidalia in Paris" is a book that will get you into that European, specifically French, mood, create an atmosphere, and throw in French references and some phrases that will make you feel that you're reading a book where the author actually knows what she's writing about. However, the plot and the characters and really iffy in this one.
The beginning was fine, enjoyable even. Vidalia goes to Paris, attends two courses, is living the exchange life with the whole hype and adrenaline that comes from being abroad, especially in a city like Paris. And up to about half way this atmosphere was energetic and kept me reading. It's what comes after that that's the problem. It felt rushed, and too forced, like the author was running out of ideas almost. I expected the book to be predictable so unlike other reviewers I can't complain about that, but as it got closer to the ending I felt less satisfied. The only part I was happy with was the way Vidalia and Julien's relationship was resolved - I felt like she deserved it, and even felt a bit of a dislike for her character at that moment. The situation with Heather about three quarters of the way through didn't convey any kind of emotions as well, leaving me wondering why exactly that was in the book anyway. A lot of the writing begged the question "why?" and drew attention to the awkward approach to them. Other things, such as lose ends with Vidalia's mother, could've also been addressed I think. There was a lot of lost potential, I would say as a final verdict. It's a book that tries to cover a lot of ground and introduce you to characters and their relationships with the main heroine but a lot of it fades into the background, like Becky and her own life.
The plus side of this book though is the way in which it approaches the question of the art theft. I, for one, was very happy with the ending (which I won't spoil), because it was much more realistic. It showed the way things in life are generally resolved, rather than the too-often sugarcoated versions of art heist and theft movies. And unlike other reviewers I preferred the fact that the gallery and the painting were made up - it showed more thought and love for the culture from the author's side. If only that was conveyed the same way with the characters and the story.
Don't expect anything when you pick up this book. I really do mean it. Approach with an open mind. You'll be immersed into a an atmosphere of a teenage girl's mind abroad, and left scratching your head at some of the choices and "unexpected plot twists" that come with it. But it's a good, light read that still left me feeling satisfied and was a nice change from the other books I've been reading lately.
"Vidalia in Paris" is a book that will get you into that European, specifically French, mood, create an atmosphere, and throw in French references and some phrases that will make you feel that you're reading a book where the author actually knows what she's writing about. However, the plot and the characters and really iffy in this one.
The beginning was fine, enjoyable even. Vidalia goes to Paris, attends two courses, is living the exchange life with the whole hype and adrenaline that comes from being abroad, especially in a city like Paris. And up to about half way this atmosphere was energetic and kept me reading. It's what comes after that that's the problem. It felt rushed, and too forced, like the author was running out of ideas almost. I expected the book to be predictable so unlike other reviewers I can't complain about that, but as it got closer to the ending I felt less satisfied. The only part I was happy with was the way Vidalia and Julien's relationship was resolved - I felt like she deserved it, and even felt a bit of a dislike for her character at that moment. The situation with Heather about three quarters of the way through didn't convey any kind of emotions as well, leaving me wondering why exactly that was in the book anyway. A lot of the writing begged the question "why?" and drew attention to the awkward approach to them. Other things, such as lose ends with Vidalia's mother, could've also been addressed I think. There was a lot of lost potential, I would say as a final verdict. It's a book that tries to cover a lot of ground and introduce you to characters and their relationships with the main heroine but a lot of it fades into the background, like Becky and her own life.
The plus side of this book though is the way in which it approaches the question of the art theft. I, for one, was very happy with the ending (which I won't spoil), because it was much more realistic. It showed the way things in life are generally resolved, rather than the too-often sugarcoated versions of art heist and theft movies. And unlike other reviewers I preferred the fact that the gallery and the painting were made up - it showed more thought and love for the culture from the author's side. If only that was conveyed the same way with the characters and the story.
Don't expect anything when you pick up this book. I really do mean it. Approach with an open mind. You'll be immersed into a an atmosphere of a teenage girl's mind abroad, and left scratching your head at some of the choices and "unexpected plot twists" that come with it. But it's a good, light read that still left me feeling satisfied and was a nice change from the other books I've been reading lately.
September 12, 2019
In a nutshell: not only is Marco obviously a complete and incorrigible sleaze, Vidalia is quite literally one of the stupidest main characters I have ever met.
But if we want have a little fun with it: In this story, a high school senior wins a competitive summer scholarship to study art in Paris, and while there she immediately meets two cute French guys who are interested in her (as you do). Julien works at the English bookstore and is adorable and college-bound; Marco, living by his wits, is all ~*smolderingly hot*~ and seduces her with his hotness, so obviously that's the one she falls in love with.
Long story short, Marco is a thief, and in no time at all he has her dining and dashing, breaking into an empty home for a sexy little weekend rendez-vous, and stealing/reselling art in order to afford a trip for two to Italy at the end of summer. (ROMANTIC!)
Each time she feels slightly dubious about the morality of these things, he smoothly explains why it's perfectly okay (these people are rich, we're not taking much, it's only fair, etc), and then her reaction is pretty much, "Oh! Now I understand; you're totally right! *airheaded giggle*" I may have embellished the giggle, but it was implied.
And in case you're still hoping this turns out okay, I refer you to the end of my first sentence. The only reason this managed not to be a 1-star read is because most of the subplots around the main plot were interesting.
But if we want have a little fun with it: In this story, a high school senior wins a competitive summer scholarship to study art in Paris, and while there she immediately meets two cute French guys who are interested in her (as you do). Julien works at the English bookstore and is adorable and college-bound; Marco, living by his wits, is all ~*smolderingly hot*~ and seduces her with his hotness, so obviously that's the one she falls in love with.
Long story short, Marco is a thief, and in no time at all he has her dining and dashing, breaking into an empty home for a sexy little weekend rendez-vous, and stealing/reselling art in order to afford a trip for two to Italy at the end of summer. (ROMANTIC!)
Each time she feels slightly dubious about the morality of these things, he smoothly explains why it's perfectly okay (these people are rich, we're not taking much, it's only fair, etc), and then her reaction is pretty much, "Oh! Now I understand; you're totally right! *airheaded giggle*" I may have embellished the giggle, but it was implied.
And in case you're still hoping this turns out okay, I refer you to the end of my first sentence. The only reason this managed not to be a 1-star read is because most of the subplots around the main plot were interesting.
December 1, 2008
Although I’ve never been to Paris, I almost feel as if I was visiting while I was reading this novel. The descriptions and imagery portrayed in Watson’s writing is spectacular! That alone made Vidalia in Paris an enjoyable read. Vidalia herself came across as a real person and her maturity is well expected after the relationship with her mother is explained. Yes she still makes mistakes as anyone her age would be expected to do.
I disliked Marco and I still don’t understand why Vidalia liked him other than for his smoking hot good looks. The guy is shady and not only that but a loser to boot. I know my dream date is to dine and dash! I mean come on, red flag right there. I know you can’t help who you fall in love with, but you can choose who you associate with. She couldn’t even be open with Marco, and yet she had no problem being open with Julien but she chooses to dismiss that.
Had I liked Marco, I think I would have liked this novel better. It was still a good read, but there are some things that I wish had been played out a little differently, obviously!
I disliked Marco and I still don’t understand why Vidalia liked him other than for his smoking hot good looks. The guy is shady and not only that but a loser to boot. I know my dream date is to dine and dash! I mean come on, red flag right there. I know you can’t help who you fall in love with, but you can choose who you associate with. She couldn’t even be open with Marco, and yet she had no problem being open with Julien but she chooses to dismiss that.
Had I liked Marco, I think I would have liked this novel better. It was still a good read, but there are some things that I wish had been played out a little differently, obviously!
February 5, 2009
Reviewed by Jennifer Rummel for TeensReadToo.com
Vidalia finds herself traveling to Paris on an art scholarship for six weeks during the summer. She's happy to be away from the struggles of her home life.
She loves art, but her first art class is a disaster. Her specialty art, rabbit houses, is completely different than the art produced by the other artists in her class.
Her host family seems too busy to hang out with her. She's on her own for most of her vacation - which is fine with her; she's there to focus on her art.
Then she meets Marcus. At first, she doesn't like him, but then he seeks her out and she can't help feeling flattered. He has different ideas about the rich, ideas that get her in over her head.
Can she put aside her concerns and love with wild abandon?
The descriptive quality of this book was sensational; when Vidalia walked down the streets of Paris, it felt like you were walking right beside her.
This breezy romantic tale forces Vidalia to make tough decisions based on her struggling conscience.
Vidalia finds herself traveling to Paris on an art scholarship for six weeks during the summer. She's happy to be away from the struggles of her home life.
She loves art, but her first art class is a disaster. Her specialty art, rabbit houses, is completely different than the art produced by the other artists in her class.
Her host family seems too busy to hang out with her. She's on her own for most of her vacation - which is fine with her; she's there to focus on her art.
Then she meets Marcus. At first, she doesn't like him, but then he seeks her out and she can't help feeling flattered. He has different ideas about the rich, ideas that get her in over her head.
Can she put aside her concerns and love with wild abandon?
The descriptive quality of this book was sensational; when Vidalia walked down the streets of Paris, it felt like you were walking right beside her.
This breezy romantic tale forces Vidalia to make tough decisions based on her struggling conscience.
Read
December 18, 2008I enjoyed this book for the most part, but was puzzled by some of the choices. The classmate with severe emotional problems did not seem vital to the book, especially since Vidalia already had a mother with severe emotional problems. Her explorations of Paris, and experiences meeting people, were lovely; I sort of wished it was just a novel about an American girl in Paris, sans mental-health issues and possibly sans art theft. I thought, wistfully, that if this book had been written 60 years ago it would have been about Vidalia having a charming romance with Julien (who she meets cute in Shakespeare and Co.), and wistfully saying goodbye to him when she must fly home to New York. Of course that would have been a less interesting book...
Possible spoiler for end of book:
I was impressed that Vidalia didn't, at the end, realize that everything with Marco was a mistake--that's what I was expecting, but her actual feelings about him were more complicated and more realistic.
Possible spoiler for end of book:
I was impressed that Vidalia didn't, at the end, realize that everything with Marco was a mistake--that's what I was expecting, but her actual feelings about him were more complicated and more realistic.
November 25, 2008
Really, really enjoyable. I almost put off reading this because I was feeling exhausted with the problems of precocious teenage girls (I've read one too many of those lately), but Vidalia wasn't like those at all. She comes across as an absolutely real person; even though she mostly seems older than a high school student, it's clear that she's grown up early for legitimate reasons. And the mistakes she makes ARE those of someone her age.
The study-abroad experience is captured perfectly, and the author makes Paris work for her. Sometimes books that take place abroad read like travelogues, but the references to Cool Paris Stuff here are never distracting. (Susann, if it weren't for one short sex scene, I would totally recommend this for your Violent Study Club meeting.)
I wasn't satisfied by the ending, though, and would be curious to hear what others think.
The study-abroad experience is captured perfectly, and the author makes Paris work for her. Sometimes books that take place abroad read like travelogues, but the references to Cool Paris Stuff here are never distracting. (Susann, if it weren't for one short sex scene, I would totally recommend this for your Violent Study Club meeting.)
I wasn't satisfied by the ending, though, and would be curious to hear what others think.
July 12, 2010
It was... okay. Vidalia was a bad character first of all. She was not round at all, plus she was really stupid and she didn't learn from anything. Throughout the whole book I didn't feel like I knew her at all. Which is not a good sign.
I hated um... what's his name, Marco, Marcus? Something like that. He sucked. Enough said.
Loved Julius. Although he could have been developed a bit more.
I liked the setting, Paris is one of my favorite places ever, and I think the author did a pretty good job of capturing that.
The art element could have been more prominent. The author could have gone into it a bit more.
Oh, and the Heather thing could have been developed more and made to be very interesting and such.
All and all, okay book. Wouldn't really recommend it, but it kept my attention and I finished it fast. So yeah.
I hated um... what's his name, Marco, Marcus? Something like that. He sucked. Enough said.
Loved Julius. Although he could have been developed a bit more.
I liked the setting, Paris is one of my favorite places ever, and I think the author did a pretty good job of capturing that.
The art element could have been more prominent. The author could have gone into it a bit more.
Oh, and the Heather thing could have been developed more and made to be very interesting and such.
All and all, okay book. Wouldn't really recommend it, but it kept my attention and I finished it fast. So yeah.
Currently reading
July 10, 2009As of right now, this book is pretty boring. The only reason i continue to force myself to read it is because i am thinking that [based off what the book cover says:] maybe it might get interesting if i stick to it. Also i don't have too many other options right now, because i only have one other book to read with me. Additionally, i always feel bad when i don't finish a book. Vidalia, the main character, seems to be rather dull and slow. which would be absolutely fine, really, but only if the writing were good. instead, there is no voice, and the writing has no enhancements whatsoever; it is like reading a fifth grader's writing. there are no exciting words or colorful phrases and the first fifty pages are dragging by like snails.
October 8, 2015
This book had so much potential for me! I loved reading about the streets of Paris, how she went to the bookstore Shakespeare and Company, a book store I want to go to this year when I arrive in Paris, and gave me insight on some museums that I'd love to visit, however, I feel like the book needed a bit of an extra push... It's missing something! I could relate though with the changes Vidalia was experiencing while being away from home for 6 weeks. Travel can change you in ways that you never expect it to.
June 14, 2009
The setting (Paris, obvs) definitely made me want to travel, but I can't be sure whether that's because I have been there so I could picture it, or because the book did it well. No objectivity, alas. I wanted more, more, more art class scenes, more friendships with the other kids in the art class. I wish I knew more about Vidalia's motivations. It makes sense, though, that maybe she wouldn't know them. So: not gripping, but fun.
October 22, 2009
The book was good. but my first reactions was, "it was too happy and predictable." and there was just something about the main character...i read some other reviews and i'm going to agree with one of them when they say she was just too boring. she didnt have any life to her. i just couldnt feel a connection.
but, i did love the paris setting and the aroma of love, (i am a true romantic) i guess overall it was okay.
but, i did love the paris setting and the aroma of love, (i am a true romantic) i guess overall it was okay.
November 12, 2008
If you like bad boys, art and all things french, run quick to a bookstore near you! After winning an art scholarship to study in Paris, Vidalia finds herself in a whirlwind of good verses bad. Will she chose the sexy, french boy who's wrapped up in underground art dealings or the sweet Julien who understands her need to escape her troubled mother?
October 6, 2008
Vidalia leaves the cloistered life she led as caretaker of her agoraphobic mom for art school in Paris - and boy, does her life change! Swarthy Marco is too good to be true (and he is ..), and guy pal Julien is happy to let Vidalia find her own way. Small town girl gets out of Dodge story combined with an art swindle thriller, with all the ambience of cafe life. A sweet and lovely read.
April 30, 2010
Vidalia goes to Paris to learn how to paint - and as I'm sure you can guess, learns a lot more than that. To her credit, Watson makes Vidalia a not complete sap and explores fairly honestly sex, attraction, bad choices and travel without wrapping it all up in a pretty bow. Good enough, but by no means compelling.
February 4, 2012
SPOILER ALERT
i was heartbroken when it came to the end where she and Marco had to separate. but i kept thinking that it was for her own good. i was a crushed when Julien just left her and got together with that other girl. i was dumbfounded that love had blinded Vidalia so much. i found my self cheering on the friendship with Heather. it was a nice break from the fantasy stuff.
i was heartbroken when it came to the end where she and Marco had to separate. but i kept thinking that it was for her own good. i was a crushed when Julien just left her and got together with that other girl. i was dumbfounded that love had blinded Vidalia so much. i found my self cheering on the friendship with Heather. it was a nice break from the fantasy stuff.
September 5, 2011
It was definitely a young adult book, but had a few more mature bits and pieces throughout. It was an easy read, but was still able to pull me into the story line. A lot of the story has French phrases, and I'm certain I will find myself slipping into that language for the next few weeks. Good thing I understand it!
October 22, 2011
This book is good if you're looking for a book with some scenery, French references, and a love for the French culture. If you are looking for a book with actual substance, don't pick this one up. I found the characters to be easy, and the plot to be predictable.
December 13, 2008
If I could give it 3.5 I probably would..I liked it and wanted to know what happened to Vidalia...but I didn't love it.
Want to read
November 15, 2008Can't wait to read! Heard Sasha talk/read from this and it sounds great!!!
March 23, 2009
I got really bored with this book...no momentum. I confess, I skimmed the last third of the book. It's fluff, not terrible, but I was ready to be done with it. First novel for the author
March 20, 2009
Easy read, entertaining for work.
July 13, 2009
Not a bad story, a bit fluffy at times and it seemed as though the author tried to tackle way too many topics for one book, but it was a quick read and I enjoyed it.
June 29, 2009
Vidalia does not pray but does eat and love. A worthy read; I felt like I was in Paris. Which is *such* a good thing!
October 30, 2009
This book provided wasn't as good as i expected it to be.Sometimes a felt as if nothing was happening/
July 26, 2010
The ending was a surprise, though not necessarily a good one. Decent book overall, though.
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