Sarah Pinneo, co-author of “The Ski House Cookbook,” is no stranger to writing. While many know Pinneo as a result of her extensive food journalism, she has now transitioned into the world of fiction with her debut novel, “Julia’s Child.”
Without a doubt, Pinneo gives a nod to the beloved chef and author Julia Child in inspiring the book and the very colorful character, Julia Bailey, a health-conscious mother who wakes up one day to a recipe for success: “Take one organic food venture. Add two kids. Season with mayhem.”
Julia is a mother of two. Like many parents, she is attentive to her children’s needs, wants and eating habits. While Julia lives in our world of mass-produced, processed and microwavable food, she seeks a better way to provide for her children starting at the root of it all: Organic food.
In realizing her capabilities as a cook and mother, Julia strikes culinary gold with her newly formed company, Julia’s Child — food right from the ground to the plate. Much of the book focuses on Julia’s marketing campaign that is directed toward like-minded parents seeking the best food alternatives for their children.
But, as Julia soon finds out, building a business does not come cheap. As a result, she takes a risk and uses a sizeable portion of her family savings to build the foundation for her food empire. In doing so, her dreams as a multitasking mother and entrepreneur prove to be more difficult than she thought.
Julia is a bit neurotic, but in a lovable kind of way. She wants the best for her children and goes to great lengths to see that happen. In addition, she’s someone readers come to appreciate and respect — similar to Pinneo herself.
Even though the book is outright hilarious, there are moments in the novel when you find yourself rooting for Julia and her accomplishment in progressing the organic way. Then, there are other times you are upset that she forgets what inspired her in the first place: Her children.
In particular, Julia seeks the positives of organic foods but then pays the hefty expense of maintaining that regimen. This theme is consistent throughout as the book is all about choices — not just what we consume on daily basis, but what we must often choose between in all realms of life.
“Julia’s Child” is perfect for any foodie aficionado, parent and/or organic enthusiast. If, however, you are none of the above, Pinneo’s aptitude to write well using experience and current trends is a surefire way to captivate all types of readers.
Rating: W W W W W
| Tweet | Follow @wkdr |
|
|
