"Close Encounters of the French Kind" contains 30 short mini-dramas in which 30 Americans from different parts of the United States meet 30 different French people from different parts of France. In each mini-drama the American misunderstands the French person or some aspect of life in France. The reader is given three choices (A, B or C) as reasons for the conflict. Explanations follow indicating why A, B or C is the correct or incorrect choice. These mini-dramas are drawn principally from the author's two years studying and teaching in France, as well as many trips to France over the years...

One of the messages of "Illuminations on the Fog of Life" is that life can be perplexing and trying, but also beautiful and rewarding. Based on a lifetime of experience, the author shows how to avoid accidents of miscommunication with friends, at home and at work, misperceptions regarding others' actions and misunderstandings because of lack of experience, knowledge or sophistication. The essays address life's challenges, surprises, mistakes, delights and insights such as: 1. how to be happy and patient; 2. the influence of money and fact checking in politics; 3. monitoring your health and...