So Far and Yet so Near—Stories of Americans Abroad
American Citizens Abroad

Expat Review by Jill Lengré:
Jill is American. She has lived in: London, England; Paris, France; and now lives in Mexico City, Mexico. Jill is a co-founder of ExpatWomen.com.

"So Far and Yet So Near" is a well-organized collection of tales by Americans who are living or who have lived abroad.  The book was compiled by American Citizens Abroad – the volunteer nonprofit association serving American Citizens residing abroad.  It includes more than 40 stories from countries all over the world.

Some stories recount just one experience – an unforgettable train trip in China, losing a son while living in Greece or importing an American birdfeeder into Italy. 
Other contributions are more like life stories – for example, how the writer came to live abroad, how it differed from expectations, and what was involved in adapting.

Interestingly, in almost every story, the American found themselves serving as an informal ambassador for the United States – especially at this time, when America is not universally viewed in a positive light.  Ironic, really, when many Americans tend to live overseas to be separated from their home country (albeit typically temporarily). 

I identified most with writer Lynne Therese Gilardi in her contribution On Foreign Soil.  “Discussing the realities of life overseas is a bit like sharing ones parenting adventures with the childless. Those without sons or daughters can never understand the complete changes in lifestyle and mindset that accompany the arrival of a child; just as I could not fully comprehend life abroad before I moved…”  I too sometimes find friends and family not really interested in what is happening in my life due to the fact that they have no frame of reference.

In conclusion, I believe that women of all nationalities could enjoy this book and could identify with the experiences of this diverse set of expatriate Americans.