When it comes to making the most of life, nobody does it better than the French. Now, with Joie de Vivre, an inspired fusion of art, style, and easy to implement ideas, anyone can feel like they spent a weekend in the French countryside, no matter where they live.

In this beautiful book, renowned restaurateur and taste-maker Robert Arbor puts a refreshing emphasis on simplicity and accessibility, explaining the everyday rituals and traditions comprising a typical French day. Featuring dozens of simple, everyday recipes, this book is filled with beautiful photographs of family meals, market trips, and charming domestic settings.

Le Matin lays out the myriad elements comprising a relaxing breakfast. Le Potager takes to the garden, describing the pleasures and rewards of home growing. Le Marche and Le Dejeuner follow Arbor to the market, the butcher, and the baker before serving up a trove of delicious ideas for lunches and snacks. Le Diner outlines strategies for crafting cozy family dinners, setting up enchanting dinner parties of all sizes, and preparing fun, simple meals for small children. Arbor's memories and experience of growing up in France and his flair for casual elegance can't help but inspire the chef and decorator in all of us.