Chronicle of a Death Not Foretold*: The Shocking, Early Passing of Food Writer Julie Powell

Food writer Julie Powell’s death came as a monumental shock to me. Her Wikipedia page is right up to date: “Powell died of cardiac arrest at her home in Olivebridge, New York, on October 26, 2022, at age 49.” People who blow out only thirty – or fewer – candles on their birthday cakes think of forty-nine as … More Chronicle of a Death Not Foretold*: The Shocking, Early Passing of Food Writer Julie Powell

Dear Julia, Happy Birthday! #100, or, Why I Loved You

Dear Julia, Happy 100th birthday! Today lots of famous food writers will write or post reams of flattering words about you. I know, I’ve already seen them, the New York Times leading the charge with three features about you, one by your friend Jacques Pépin. Like Jacques, many others will point out, once again, that … More Dear Julia, Happy Birthday! #100, or, Why I Loved You

Julie & Julia —

A kitchen, a bottle of wine, and a duck recipe. Easy, right? With the movie, “Julie & Julia,” now out,  media commentators and critics find new fodder for chewing. One of the better perusals comes from The Boston Globe, written by Devra First and Wesley Morris. A video helps brings home the impact of cooking … More Julie & Julia —