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If You Still Don't Know Where To Go
You need to establish an itinerary, so you should look for travel guides that cover the entire country (or, if you've narrowed it down to a region, just that area).
Especially look for books with thorough descriptions or ratings of towns, lots of pictures and maps to help you plan your route.
If You Need To Book A Room
Some travel guides do a wonderful job inspiring us to visit certain towns, then leave us hanging when it comes to where to stay. If you have narrowed it down to specific locations, but need a room now, look for guides that have detailed listings or ratings of hotels in that city or region. They should include contact information, amenities, typical rates and a vivid description of accomodations.
If You Have Specific Interests
If you are planning to visit France with a one-track mind (for instance, you are most interested in festivals, antiques, wine-tasting or markets), look for books that focus narrowly on that topic regarding your French travel. This should not be the only book you take with you, but will make a wonderful secondary guide.
If You Plan To Drive Or Ride The Rails
If you plan to get yourself around, be sure to invest in a detailed map, as well as a good overall French country guide (sometimes both are in the same package). That will help tremendously when you are over there and trying to decifer your route or you get lost (and you will).
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