Uplifting Food Memoirs

One of the most popular forms of literature today is the memoir. These days, folks with barely three decades under their belt are writing their memoirs, but on this week's show, we hear from four wise women who relate a lifetime of memories along with valuable lessons learned in theirs.

We begin with Southern baker and activist Lisa Donovan, whose book, Our Lady of Perpetual Hunger is a raw, honest, and brave telling of a life that will leave you hungry for more. In her memoir, Lisa explores how reclaiming her narrative is not merely an act of ego – but one of solidarity, universality, and inspiration.

Then, we speak with award-winning writer Ann Hood. Her writings explore the human condition, frequently drawing upon her own life experiences, including her journey with grief following a terrible family tragedy. While none of her previously published eight books fall into the food genre, her most recent, Kitchen Yarns, explores her life through what she was eating (and cooking) during the most salient times.

Next, we celebrate Hanukkah with award-winning author and food blogger Elissa Altman, for whom the holiday season means a unique blend of Hanukkah and Christmas traditions. Elissa tells us about her unique upbringing in her second memoir Treyf: My Life as an Unorthodox Outlaw.

We end with Mary Giuliani, author of Tiny Hot Dogs. As an awkward kid growing up on Long Island in the 1980s, Mary's dream was to one day become a famous actor – preferably, a cast member on Saturday Night Live. Today, she plays a different kind of role: as caterer to the stars. Famous for her finger food recipes, she regularly works with A-list celebrities in the worlds of fashion, art, and movies. In her book, Mary weaves together a collection of memories from her life while offering a glimpse into the career of a celebrity caterer.