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greatexpectations77's review against another edition
informative
slow-paced
2.75
I like mess, so I kept reading this, but the writing style is really not my jam. Dixon seems like the guy who keeps reminding you that he lives in Brooklyn. This reads like a journal, instead of a memoir; the former is not edited for interest or flow. Also, he put his partner through hell, and he seemed like an eye-roll as a student.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying and Emotional abuse
Moderate: Alcohol, Toxic relationship, and Gaslighting
Minor: Injury/Injury detail
wrentheblurry's review
2.0
The book world has no shortage of titles focusing on someone's culinary experience, be that cooking school, life at a restaurant, or something similar. I'm a member of a Food for Thought book club, and because of that, I feel like I've read my share. This was the August selection.
I finished it, which right away means it is at least readable, for I have a low tolerance for food/cooking books that I don't like. I'll just toss them before the end of the first chapter. This one is easy to read. It offers a decent look at Dixon's journey through the CIA's program.
Still, it never excited, intrigued, or motivated me. It became a tad dull. While part of me wished that the ending extended longer than it did (maybe Dixon is planning a sequel instead?), most of me was happy it ended when it did. Had it gone on much longer, this would be a 2-star title.
EDIT: I went to my book club meeting for this title tonight, and was reminded of how whiny Dixon's tone felt throughout, especially when faced with a struggle or hardship. The other members were in consensus about it being boring and whiny, and I have lowered my review to 2 stars. That rating probably more accurately reflects my original review anyway: "it was ok."
I finished it, which right away means it is at least readable, for I have a low tolerance for food/cooking books that I don't like. I'll just toss them before the end of the first chapter. This one is easy to read. It offers a decent look at Dixon's journey through the CIA's program.
Still, it never excited, intrigued, or motivated me. It became a tad dull. While part of me wished that the ending extended longer than it did (maybe Dixon is planning a sequel instead?), most of me was happy it ended when it did. Had it gone on much longer, this would be a 2-star title.
EDIT: I went to my book club meeting for this title tonight, and was reminded of how whiny Dixon's tone felt throughout, especially when faced with a struggle or hardship. The other members were in consensus about it being boring and whiny, and I have lowered my review to 2 stars. That rating probably more accurately reflects my original review anyway: "it was ok."
beastreader's review
4.0
When Jonathan Dixon was thirty eight. Which was just a few years ago, he decided to pursue a new, exciting and somewhat scary challenge. He was going to enroll at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Jonathan had shared a love for food. He was a former writer for Martha Stewart Living magazine after all. Though, Mr. Dixon quickly learned that even the simplest of things like buttering meat or cutting fish is harder than you would think. There is an art form to what you are taught at CIA.
This book was a very, insightful and fun look into the world of the CIA. Chef Gerard Viverito, the fish instructor was one of my favorite instructors. This is funny as most of the students there will tell you that he is one of the most feared instructors there. He can make a grown man cry. After reading this book, you might have better luck becoming a CIA agent than graduating the Culinary Institute of America and becoming a chef. This school is not as easy as baking a pie. Mr. Dixon did a very, good job giving readers an inside look into the CIA without being boring. Beaten, Seared, and Sauced is the perfect appetizer for any foodie!
This book was a very, insightful and fun look into the world of the CIA. Chef Gerard Viverito, the fish instructor was one of my favorite instructors. This is funny as most of the students there will tell you that he is one of the most feared instructors there. He can make a grown man cry. After reading this book, you might have better luck becoming a CIA agent than graduating the Culinary Institute of America and becoming a chef. This school is not as easy as baking a pie. Mr. Dixon did a very, good job giving readers an inside look into the CIA without being boring. Beaten, Seared, and Sauced is the perfect appetizer for any foodie!
j45rpm's review
4.0
Jonathan Dixon's "Beaten, Seared, and Sauced: On Becoming a Chef at the Culinary Institute of America" was an interesting read, but he seems overly self-congratulatory while simultaneously overly critical of those around him. For those interested in the world of chefs, Dixon's book is reminiscent of Anthony Bourdain's Ktichen Confidential as an insider's look behind the curtain, but Bourdain also seems more willing to take personal responsibility for his faults.
jascolib's review
5.0
Amazing book. Recommended this to all people who cook, whether it is for your profession or for pleasure.
mcmulroy's review
3.0
About a man in his late-30s who decides to change his life and go cooking school, where he is surrounded by young, 20-somethings just starting out. A great look at how brutal the restaurant world can be when you first start out and the hard work and long hours that are required.
storytimed's review
4.0
Highly entertaining though I wish it had spent more time with his fellow classmates! Jonathan Dixon really knows how to write. Made me very certain I never want to go to culinary school. Also, poor Nell.
bernfarr's review
5.0
I've always wanted to be a chef, though I recognize that I probably wouldn't have the endurance to do it. Dixon's book let me experience the CIA vicariously through his book which is entertaining and enjoyable. Dixon really captures the challenges of learning skills under pressure and the differences between good teachers and dictator-style teaching. This is a great read, recommended.
fibrejunky's review
5.0
This book made me wish I could attend the CIA. When he writes about the class on butchering meat, I want to be there. When he writes about about cooking in one of the school restaurants, I really want to be there. And even when he talks about the field trip to the chicken farm, I still want to be right there, learning and experiencing everything.