Writing at the Kitchen Table: The Authorized Biography of Elizabeth David

I have six of her books and this biography made me get them all out - totally tattered Penguins, most spilling pages from frequent use - except for Omelette and Wine, and Bread and Yeast which reflect a better quality of binding glue; and Italian Cooking which was more damaged by being left out in a Johannesburg rain storm. Fascinating book, extremely well constructed and expressed.

I started this book some time ago, made it midway and put it down. On a recent trip for Christmas overseas, I packed the book and finished it. I love reading the biographies of personalities like Elizabeth David. Like her American counterpart Julia Child, she helped change the way home cooks approach food. Both started finding their way in the midst of war at more mature ages .For those that love food and a bit of history thrown in this is a wonderful read. I admit , I did lose a bit of interest during the end of war years, but became riveted again when the subject returned home and started her true calling. After reading about Elizabeth David I would like to collect her works.

It's good, if just a little awestruck.

It's good, if just a little awestruck.