Idle in Provence: A Brief History of Thyme by Eric Idle

Picture this: 1971, the height of Monty Python mania, and Eric Idle buys a crumbling stone ruin in the hills of Provence. No electricity. No water. No road. No plan. Just a dream of turning a neglected shack into what he affectionately calls a “shackeau.”

Idle in Provence is the story of a transformation—of the place, and of the man himself.

Against a sun-drenched backdrop of southern France, Idle penned iconic songs and scripts, welcomed a revolving door of brilliant and eccentric friends—George Harrison, Robin Williams, Paul Simon—and discovered a rare kind of peace far from the madness of showbiz.

Part memoir, part travelogue, part comedy masterclass, this one has it all. Laugh-out-loud moments. Tender reflections. And that sharp, self-deprecating wit only Eric Idle can deliver.

As he muses on love, loss, friendship, and joy, Idle paints a vivid portrait of a home that became something more—a true sanctuary. Along the way, you’ll find candid memories of fame, behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative life, and thoughtful meditations on purpose and the legacy of laughter.

Charming, cheeky, and unexpectedly moving. It’s a love letter to France, to old friends, and to the wild, unpredictable ride of being alive.

We can’t think of a better companion for a rainy afternoon here in the cove—settle into a comfy chair, listen to the sea, and let Idle whisk you off to Provence. This handsome hardcover new release is waiting on our shelves.

Come browse. Come linger. We’d love to help you find your next favorite read.

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