Book Review: Hackett at Large

Reviewed by Elizabeth Reiser

A lighthearted romp through 1960s Paris as told by a charming fictional reporter

Hackett at Large: Tales from a Reporter’s Life in Paris 1961 – 1968 is author Jack Fitzgerald’s rosy take on life in the city during that era. Told through the eyes of fictional American in Paris journalist Ben Hackett, this collection of connected short stories regales the reader with imagined conversations with various historical figures. The result is a lovely book one can easily enjoy in an afternoon. 

Each chapter focuses on Hackett interviewing (or, in some cases, attempting to interview) the likes of Frank Sinatra, John F. Kennedy, and even the Beatles. While most of his interviewees are wary of journalists, Hackett’s personality endears him to almost everyone he encounters (the two exceptions being his girlfriend’s mother and—in an interesting turn of events—fans of supermodel Twiggy), making him a popular local figure. As a main character, Hackett is affable and charming, often being more the star of his vignettes than the celebrities themselves. 

Fitzgerald’s writing style is reminiscent of PG Wodehouse; the book is light, charming, and a touch optimistic, never quite touching on anything unpleasant (for example, glossing over the assassination of JFK or the fact Hackett himself is a war veteran). The result is a romanticized snapshot of a moment in time.

The magic of the city is underutilized; the stories could be set anywhere. When I encounter a book set in Paris, I want to be enmeshed in the setting, to smell and feel and see it, but the essence of Paris does not come across very much in these stories.

While using Paris to his advantage is an opportunity Fitzgerald does not properly take advantage of, it is fortunate for him that Hackett’s personality makes up for the lack of atmosphere. Hackett’s easygoing nature and his ability to charm even the stodgiest of celebrities makes for a joyful read. 

This book is a cheerful fast read perfect for a weekend. Fans of a bygone era will enjoy the references to celebrities and the overall style and feel of the sixties. As it is a lighter book, one should not expect it to touch on the less glamorous aspects of the time, but anyone wanting more charm than drama will find this an enjoyable addition to their library.  

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