*Giveaway* The School of Essential Ingredients

I have just finished the most wonderful novel.  The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister.  Her first novel, and, in my humble opinion, an outstanding one.

This book is an easy read – in my case it took one evening.  It’s a light read – it likely won’t change your life.

But it’s also a profound read in many ways.  One of the most insightful books I’ve had the pleasure to happen upon in recent years.

I related to Lillian, who saw food as a means of healing.

I found myself in Claire, who lost herself in her children.

I longed for a love like that of Carl and Helen, who weathered a marital storm and because of that drew closer.

I ached for Tom, mourning his unthinkable loss.

I cook like Charlotte.  [garlic - hello, lover]

I am naive like Chloe.

And I have never before read a book so that so completely captured me in so many ways.  I was startled more than once to find that the exact words in my head had seemingly been snatched and copied, right there on the pages.

I was moved.

I am a foodie.  I love food from a place deep within my soul.  As far as completely personal hobbies go, I’m not sure I could name anything I do that gives me more pleasure than cooking.

And this book – oh, this book!  It so fully encapsulated the passion and sensuality of food, I am almost at a loss for words to describe it properly.

As corny as I know it sounds, this book touched something deep inside of me.  It stirred feelings that I’ve pushed aside for years.

It inspired me.

And I’d like to see if maybe it would inspire you, too.

I am giving away a copy of The School of Essential Ingredients.  If you’d like to win your very own copy, just leave me a comment with your favorite ingredient, food, recipe, family meal memory…  Whatever you’d like.  Share a foodie thought with me and you’re in!

Drawing will be held this Friday evening, September 10, at 8 pm EST.  Or whenever my kids get to bed.

And don’t be surprised to find lots of recipes here this month – I’ve been cooking up a storm.