March Book Review

As well as my usual cookbook reading this month – browsing recipes, making notes, writing lists of ingredients I need and adapting recipes of my own, I’ve read two food-related non cookbooks - 

What I Ate in One Year (and related thoughts) by Stanley Tucci and 

Do/Nourish - How to Eat for Resilience by Sarah Bayliss. 

What I Ate in One Year (and related thoughts) by Stanley Tucci

This was a Christmas present from Mr B, knowing I love all food related writing he got it absolutely right with this one. Written as a diary, I found it great to dip into as a bedtime read (less likely to nod off). The related thoughts were funny, and I found myself hearing Stanley Tucci’s voice as I read it, mostly in the style of his ‘Searching for Italy’ TV series – also really good. The book gives you an insight into the life of a successful actor and the people he knows through the industry, he certainly eats out and entertains a lot but there are plenty of simple Italian recipes to make at home. I very rarely turn down pages in a book – preferring a sticky note to mark the recipes I like. But I did turn down the page of this quote – which really sat with me – 

“Home cooked food strengthens our bonds when we are together, keeps us connected when we are apart, and sustains the memory of us when we have passed away.”

This made me think of my Grandam and all the food memories I have of her and connected to her. I hope I am making similar memories for my children and grandchildren.

Do Nourish – How to eat for resilience by Sarah Bayliss

The Do books - @dobookco - are excellent, so many great subjects encouraging you to Do (have a go, learn the subject, get the knowledge), this is my favourite so far. I’ve followed Sarah Bayliss for a while, she’s a functional nutritionist, I love her straightforward advice and clear explanations, the book is no different and is split into simple weekly changes that you can make. Including things like ‘Empower your morning’, ‘Protein with every meal’ and ‘Customise your carbs’. Theres some sciencey stuff in there (that I had to read twice!), but the book is clear and builds you up to new habits week by week. I’ll definitely be reading it again and would highly recommend the book to anyone wanting to nourish themselves. 

Talking of books – my next Cookbook Book Club is on Thursday 10th April at 7pm and includes a welcome treat, tea and coffee and a light supper. It’s £20 per person and tickets are on the 'Events' page of the website. The format is relaxed and fun and I’ll be talking about my latest cookbook purchase and highlighting an old favourite. Everyone gets the chance to talk about their latest purchase or favourite cookbook if they want to. Do come along if you’re local, it’s a great evening. The event is held at my unit at Old Slenningford Farm. 

I appreciate some of you are not local, so I had thought about doing a version online, similar format – minus the supper of course, where those further afield get to talk all things cookbooks as well – what do you think? Should I give it a go?