Food and drink inspired by classic and modern literary works.
At last, we are in New Mexico! My home state is written about beautifully in this classic, The Milagro Beanfield War. Set in the mythical village of Milagro (there is actually a Milagro, NM, but the real town is nothing like the book's version), it's the story of Joe Mondragón and his fight for water … Continue reading The Milagro Beanfield War by John Nichols
What I found fascinating about The Dead House is the fact that it's narrated in first person by a character who is not the focus of the story, but whose own story is as much a part of the overall arc as the main character. Mike is an art dealer and his best friend is … Continue reading The Dead House by Billy O’Callaghan
I fully admit that this would never have been a book I'd deliberately choose to read, falling as it does into my category of chick lit. And we all know how I feel about chick lit. However, The Coincidence of Coconut Cake (what a twee title!) was actually fairly decently written, though with a fair … Continue reading The Coincidence of Coconut Cake by Amy Reichert
I woke to the horrific news that Anthony Bourdain had committed suicide. I referred to him as my "future ex-husband," and he was certainly one of the biggest influences on my cooking. I am pretty heartbroken over this. My heart goes out to his family, particularly his daughter, and I hope his wild soul has … Continue reading Homage to Anthony Bourdain
This is a bizarre, surreal, and very captivating read. I'd read The Time Traveler's Wife a few years ago by the same author, and although I enjoyed it greatly, it didn't grab me the way this one has. Her Fearful Symmetry is one of the strangest and compelling ghost stories I've read in ages, although … Continue reading Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey Niffenegger
Friday, May 25 was the anniversary of the death of Douglas Adams, author of The Hitchhikers' Guide to the Galaxy. For anyone who loves sarcasm, satire, and snark, this book is a must-read. I was introduced to this book in a way a lot of geeky types are - by someone far, far nerdier than … Continue reading The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
An interesting microcosm of history, Salt essentially takes us back through the known history of the world, and analyzes how this humble little rock - the only rock humans can eat - and how it has had a transforming effect upon civilization. To be honest, however, there were large chunks of the book that weren't … Continue reading Salt: A World History by Mark Kurlansky
I'd consider this book of short stories, Cuentos: Tales from the Hispanic Southwest, one of the pivotal books of my childhood. I've mentioned my father and his love of reading, and there were always books around him. In his car, in his house, you name it. As well, being a very strong proponent of civil … Continue reading Cuentos: Tales from the Hispanic Southwest by José Griego y Maestas and Rudolfo Anaya
I ain't gonna deny it, Mr. Rochester is SEXY! Oh my lord almighty. Dark, mysterious, distant and yet romantic, rides a horse, is sarcastic, dresses in black. I could bang Mr. Rochester like a screen door from here til August......though it may also have to do with the fact that my very first big-screen Mr. … Continue reading Jane Eyre: An Autobiography by Charlotte Bronte
Have you ever read a book that you nearly instantaneously fell in love with? My friend Angela recommended Delicious! by Ruth Reichl, which I'd seen on various lists of foodie books, but dismissed as "chick lit." Those of you who follow my blog know of my disdain for "chick lit." Yes, I'm a literary snob … Continue reading Delicious! by Ruth Reichl
The Journey in Every Story...
Celebrating 700 years of delicious British food.
50,000 Monkeys at 50,000 Typewriters Can't Be Wrong
Vampire travels across Europe
a Food & Books Blog
Art, Horror, and Other Obsessions
Researching, investigating, and writing about the paranormal.
Writing and Reading
so many recipes, so little time . . .
Curiosity doesn't retire.
Talking about great books while enjoying tasty libations!
...reincarnation, cats, pop culture and beer...
Good food doesn't have to be difficult...
Myths, legends, folklore and tales from around the world
Looking for thoughtful discussions about books and beverages? Well, you've come to the right place.
Food In Books 