"the kitchen is my harbor"

Image Courtesy of Book Larder

Last night I had the distinct privilege of attending a book reading at the marvelous Book Larder by chef and author Donia Bijan, an Iranian exile of over 30 years. Bijan is a gifted storyteller and held the crowd spellbound as she shared tales from her book, Maman's Homesick Pie, of meals, family, identity, and memory.

You must stop reading this blog immediately and go purchase this book, preferably from a store such as Book Larder. I forwent sleep last night because I had to devour at least the first chapter. Given my commitment to bedtime, readers will appreciate the power this book holds over me. 

At one point during the question and answer period, Bijan confided that while the perception of exiles is one of untethered "betwixt and between," food can be a reassuring constant. "The kitchen is my harbor" she said.

We were lucky to let down our anchors with her last night.