What She Ate

Dive into the delectable and insightful world of "What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food That Tells Their Stories" by acclaimed food historian Laura Shapiro. This captivating paperback, published by William The 4th in 2018, offers a unique and fascinating perspective on the lives of six extraordinary women through the lens of their eating habits and culinary choices. Forget traditional biographies; Shapiro masterfully dissects diaries, letters, cookbooks, and even grocery lists to reveal the hidden desires, anxieties, and societal pressures that shaped these women's relationships with food. "What She Ate" isn't just about recipes; it's about revelation. Shapiro doesn't merely recount what these women ate; she explores *why*. Through meticulous research and engaging prose, she unveils how food functioned as a form of self-expression, rebellion, comfort, and control. The book offers a fresh and intimate understanding of their lives, illuminating aspects often overlooked by conventional historical accounts. Who are these remarkable women? Prepare to be intrigued by: * **Dorothy Wordsworth:** Sister of the renowned poet William Wordsworth, Dorothy's simple yet profound connection to food reflects her deep appreciation for nature and domesticity. Shapiro explores how Dorothy's meals mirrored her close bond with her brother and the natural world. * **Rosa Lewis:** A flamboyant and influential cook and hotelier, Rosa Lewis ran the Cavendish Hotel in London and catered to royalty and celebrities. Her story unveils a world of Edwardian extravagance and the power of food to create social connections. * **Eleanor Roosevelt:** The First Lady of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt, used food as a tool for diplomacy and social change, even if her personal tastes were often simple and unadorned. Discover the surprising dishes served at the White House and the hidden messages they conveyed. * **Helen Gurley Brown:** The controversial editor of *Cosmopolitan* magazine, Helen Gurley Brown, embraced dieting and self-improvement with zealous fervor. Shapiro delves into her pursuit of "having it all" and the often-unhealthy relationship with food that accompanied it. * **Eva Braun:** Hitler's mistress, Eva Braun's story presents a chilling contrast between the opulence of Nazi life and the moral depravity at its core. Shapiro examines how food served as a symbol of power, privilege, and denial during one of history's darkest periods. * **Barbara Pym:** A beloved novelist known for her witty observations of British social life, Barbara Pym found solace and inspiration in food. Shapiro reveals how Pym's personal experiences with rejection and loneliness are reflected in her characters' culinary choices. With 320 pages of absorbing narrative, "What She Ate" is more than just a collection of food stories; it's a nuanced exploration of women's history, cultural attitudes toward food, and the power of the culinary to illuminate the human experience. Weighing in at 511 grams, this paperback edition is the perfect companion for thoughtful reading and reflection. Discover the hidden stories behind the food they ate and gain a deeper understanding of these complex and captivating women. Prepare to be engrossed from the first page to the last! Elle raves, If you find the subject of food to be both vexing and transfixing, youll love What She Ate.