“Finding Freedom: A Cook’s Story Remaking A Life From Scratch” Book Review

Book: “Finding Freedom: A Cook’s Story Remaking A Life From Scratch” by Erin French

Genre: Memoir

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Blogger’s Note: Thank you to Celadon Books for the gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. #Partner

You know how people say, “Don’t go to the grocery store hungry.” Well, the same should be said for reading master chef Erin French’s new memoir. Not only will this new book make readers lust after delectable foods cooking in rural Maine, but it will transport readers right into “The Lost Kitchen“. Restaurant owner and author Erin French is able to expertly translate her passion for cooking and effortlessly infuse it into her writing. Dripping with imagery and lush prose, the memoir provides an immersive reading experience. The book features excellent organization and structure which lends itself to the overall success of the story. The memoir is divided into five main sections, each covering a very important time within the author’s life. Each portion of the book is well thought out, planned and executed.

Without providing too many spoilers, Erin French has certainly overcome her share of obstacles. With content warnings including: divorce, drug abuse/alcoholism, abuse, she could have easily given up. In fact, I found the “Prospect” section hard to digest as a reader. There were so many places where her environment (either people or situations) failed Erin. It is important to note: I appreciated the author’s honesty throughout the book. Writing this memoir must have been challenging for her. To have to revisit some of those moments and relive those interactions in order to document them must have been a huge stressor. As a reader, I applaud her frankness and her bravery for sharing these things with the world.

For Erin French, the kitchen was a place where broken relationships were mended, life happened, and where magic was born. It is clear from this book that she found her calling to work as a chef. This memoir will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites with a story of strength and passion that will feed the soul.

Recommendations: Pick this one up if you like memoirs or are interested in cooking!

Also to note: Erin French is going to be starring in a TV show called “The Lost Kitchen” on the Magnolia Network. It is no wonder that Joanna Gaines snagged up this superstar chef. She has the rustic, farmhouse, hygge charm appeal that the Magnolia company is so well known for.