This collection of twenty-two short stories captures the shifting social and physical landscape of Paris through the perspectives of diverse characters across two centuries. Each narrative functions as a localized vignette, focusing on specific arrondissements and quarters to reveal the city's evolving character. The protagonists, ranging from provincial transplants to local residents, navigate the city's streets, cafes, and public spaces, often driven by personal desires or the pressures of urban life. The anthology utilizes a multi-author framework to contrast historical observations with contemporary experiences, providing a broad view of the city's cultural identity.

Readers frequently highlight the effectiveness of the anthology in capturing the distinct atmosphere of various Parisian districts. Discussion often centers on the contrast between the romanticized image of the city and the gritty, realistic portrayals found in the earlier stories. Critics note that the inclusion of both classic and modern writers provides a balanced view of how the city has transformed over time. The pacing is described as varied, reflecting the different stylistic approaches of the contributing authors. Many readers appreciate the use of maps and photographs as tools that enhance the immersion into the specific locations depicted in the text.