The book "France and the Republic. Records of what was seen and learned in the French provinces during the 'hundredth year' 1889" by William Henry Harlbert is a fascinating travel story about the author's impressions of visiting the French provinces in the year when the hundredth anniversary of the Great French Revolution was celebrated. The description includes vivid sketches of local residents, their customs and traditions, impressions of cultural events that took place during this significant year for France. The author shares his observations and conclusions, emphasizing the importance of the Republic for French society and the country's identity. Through clear writing and apt expressions, this book becomes a valuable source of knowledge about France in the 19th century.