French Wit and Wisdom: A look at Life by Great French Writers (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780966184303)

My grandfather, Joseph Palmeri Ph.D, born in Italy in 1899, has long been a citizen of the United States. He had more then forty years teaching experience at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He has written more than 11 books devoted to the teaching of French and Italian. Teaching to him more than just being able to speak the language fluently. He often said, "teaching French or English or anything is not so important as teaching how to think." My Grandfather not only taught you French he taught you the French culture giving the students exposer to the French mind by seasoning his texts with quotations from notable French writers. Briefly, these quotations combine information, culture, and mental stimulation while familiarizing the students with the names of notable French authors. As a boy I loved being around him, even at the expense of shoveling his walk and mowing his yard in summer. I thought him to be a great thinker philosopher always sharing wise and wonderful things about life. I later discovered the source of his wisdom and flashes of wit. He was a student of the French literature quoting what others had written; by incorporating the French maxims into his own life, he lived a deeper richer more fulfilling life. May I encourage you do the same. Daniel Higby May, 2011