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bibliobrandie's review
5.0
This picture-book biography celebrates the life of Edna Lewis, queen of Southern cooking. I hadn't heard of Lewis before and loved learning about her through this absolutely gorgeously illustrated book. Back matter includes an author’s note, sources, and a recipe for Edna’s biscuits.
mldavisreads's review
informative
inspiring
4.5
Picture book biography. Edna Lewis was an African American woman who learned how to cook at her mother's side and took her southern cooking to NY. She grew up on a farm, learned how to make biscuits and cake (cakes are done when they are no longer hissing but quiet-- I have never heard of this method before!), and also cooked with the goods from the farm. She went to work in New York and sent money home for her younger siblings after both parents passed. Though she was a successful seamstress, even sewing for movie stars, she missed cooking and the feeling of community from her home in Freetown, VA. So she started cooking in NY and eventually became the co-owner of a Manhattan restaurant.
While this story is inspiring on its own, the illustration truly bring it to life. From the rich browns used for skin tones to the fresh food to the fashionable dresses, this is truly a feast for the eyes. I loved seeing an original farm-to-table cook and reading the descriptions of the southern meals. Glad to see a biscuit recipe is included in the back.
While this story is inspiring on its own, the illustration truly bring it to life. From the rich browns used for skin tones to the fresh food to the fashionable dresses, this is truly a feast for the eyes. I loved seeing an original farm-to-table cook and reading the descriptions of the southern meals. Glad to see a biscuit recipe is included in the back.
sunflowerjess's review
informative
inspiring
relaxing
fast-paced
5.0
What an incredible woman Edna Lewis was. I loved the photograph of her at the end of the book - she looks so regal and kind.
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