Requests from Christine C

Another Japan request: any special, unique souvenirs you recommend seeking out, that would be hard to find online? Think that beer glass from that one speakeasy, that candy you can't find stateside, a weird but useful kitchen tool...bonus if it's art supply related. Thank you!

Books/articles to read before going to Japan? Could be fiction (ancient to modern), historical, current events. Something to understand or appreciate aspects of the culture and the land more deeply.

Any family-friendly Parisian restaurant recs that can fit 6? Bringing my newly rambunctious 4 year old, a fairly calm 6 year old, and my parents. I'm dreading a little bit being judged as "those Americans" whose kids are misbehaving while the French kids are calmly placing their napkins in their lap. A plus: we are adventurous eaters! (Kids love escargot 😅)

Colonial Williamsburg is kind of my Disney World. Any recommendations for other sites (U.S. or world) where you can dive into historic life, crafts, occupations, etc?

Turn a summer hater into a summer lover! As an expat Canadian, I'm slowly disintegrating in southern heat and humidity. Since it's only going to get worse, would love your best recommendations of activities, items, etc to learn to love this atomic heat.