The M.F.K. Fisher Reader

This book of autobiographical essays is the best introduction to the writings of M.F.K. Fisher that I know of. I've read a lot of her books, and this remains a favorite. She gives us glimpses into the archaic and loving rituals of French cuisine, as practiced by the Burgundians, the strangeness of being a teenage girl in a cloister-like California boarding school in the 20's, and being the young, newly-married wife of a poetry scholar in Strasbourg.The ironic thing about Fisher is that her husband was the literary scholar (Al Fisher wrote a monumental epic poem that vanished upon publication.) Her writing, however, is some of the best American prose; honest, perceptive, introspective and biting. Her work endures and provides more than just a viewpoint on cooking; it is a wonderful glimpse into pre-World War 2 Europe and America.

M.F.K. Fisher is the predecessor to Alice Waters. A Californian who learned early in life to appreciate the robust flavors of the freshest ingredients and how to achieve magic with them. The essays include Classical and modern history references to famous chefs and gourmandaise. The author touches subjects ranging from the outrageous and excesses of the Greeks and Romans to the shortages and sacrifices during wartime. A great reader for foodies.