This is such an endearing read, in so many ways. I grew up learning cooking from watching Julia Child on television. I think I saw every episode and have the full collection of her shows in my DVD library. So you can see how emotionally bonded I feel towards her. Then to open this book and begin reading. Very touching.
My first impression was wonder. Did people really write long letters like these? The book is a compilation of the letters Julia wrote and sent to her friend Avis DeVito, and the ones Avis wrote back to Julia. This is the first time their private letters have been made public. You read them in chronological order from 1952 to 1961, following their blossoming friendship, their sharing cooking tips, their strategies for getting Julia's first cookbook published. And the letters are long! Some go on for pages.
"I suppose one reason we can write so easily to each other is that for one, we have established the rhythm.....it is lovely to be perfectly at ease, and to be able to discuss anything at all; and may it ever remain so!" Julia to Avis, June 22, 1956
Tucked here and there in the chapters are archive photos of Julia, wonderful photos that evoke the time and sense of place. This one is of her first kitchen in Paris.
A funny one that she and her husband sent as a Valentine's Day card one year.
One of Julia when she was younger.
"My this is a fun city...all this sun, and the shouting and the gaiety. The people are great fun and warm and nice. I just like the French people anyway...and thank God I can talk French." Julia in Marseille
In a way I feel as if I am a bird on her shoulder, following her around and getting inside her thoughts. It brings me very close to her. This book is amazing. A great treasure that documents for all time the evolution of a chef and the deep warmth and intelligence that went with it. We all miss Julia. This book brings her back.
As Always, Julia: The Letters of Julia Child and Avis DeVoto
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