In "Dreaming in French," Alice Kaplan explores the experiences of three iconic American women in Paris, focusing on their personal and artistic growth. Through their time in the city, they navigated cultural currents that shaped their identities, providing insight into their distinctive perspectives and influences during the mid-20th century.

Kaplan reflects on Simone de Beauvoir's unwavering commitment to her own perspective, noting how her diaries serve as a testament to her singular consciousness. Beauvoir's assertion that she simply documented her experiences highlights her authenticity and dedication to truth, underscoring a broader theme of self-exploration and individuality that resonates throughout the book.