This aerial tour over France is tantamount to a fantastic journey in time and space. The great variety of the French landscape reflects not only the nation's rich history, but its immense natural beauty as well. Within the French interior lies a vast network of rivers and streams. It is along the banks of these rivers that the great centers of France, rich with splendid historical buildings, grew up: not only Paris on the Seine, but the Loire Valley. This "garden of France," the heart of the French Renaissance, features the fabulous royal chateaux, such as Chambord and Chenonceau. The valley of the Garonne offers similar treasures in the southwest. And finally, the link between the regions of the north and the Midi, from Lyons to Marseilles, is one of the most historic areas in France.

What better way to capture the history and spirit of the land than this collection of stunning aerial photographs. France from the Air is the best possible tribute to one of the most beloved countries of the world.

Born in Milan, Guido Alberto Rossi started his career as a photographer in 1967 with a story on the Six-Day War. Having established his reputation as a photojournalist, for many years he reported on various conflicts, from Guinea to Vietnam and Cambodia. After acquiring a Cessna 210 in 1988, he specialized in aerial photography. His features have appeared in numerous magazines, and he has published over twenty books.

A lecturer at the University of Paris VII (1975-1998), Jean-Louis Houdebine has made various studies of modern literature. A keen jazz fan, he has translated the great biographies of such American musicians as Louis Armstrong and John Coltrane.