Home Made: A Story of Grief, Groceries, Showing Up–and What We Make When We Make Dinner

**Home Made: A Story of Grief, Groceries, Showing Upand What We Make When We Make Dinner by Liz Hauck** Discover the profound power of connection, community, and culinary comfort in Liz Hauck's deeply moving memoir, "Home Made." A New York Times Editors Choice, this book is more than just a story about cooking; it's a testament to the radical grace found in shared meals and the enduring bonds forged in the face of loss. Hauck's poignant narrative invites readers to contemplate the fundamental question: Who are we to one another? "Home Made" stems from a simple yet ambitious plan. Liz and her father envisioned a weekly cooking program for teenage boys in state care. Following her father's untimely passing, Liz, a high school teacher, bravely embarks on this project alone, driven by a desire to honor his memory and complete at least one item on his unfinished to-do list. What begins as a tribute evolves into a life-altering experience for both Liz and the young men she encounters. Through weekly dinners, a unique alchemy unfolds around the kitchen table. Hauck masterfully captures the often-awkward, sometimes chaotic, but always heartfelt process of cooking together. As the boys choose menus and Liz provides the groceries, they embark on culinary adventures, transforming simple ingredients into nourishing meals and, more importantly, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. These shared dinners become a safe space for vulnerability, where stories are exchanged, laughter rings out, and grief finds a gentle outlet. "Home Made" explores the intersections of flavor and memory, vulnerability and strength, grief and connection. Hauck's writing is both sharply observed and deeply empathetic, offering a candid glimpse into the lives of these court-involved youth and the challenges they face. She doesn't shy away from the complexities of their situations but instead celebrates their resilience, their humor, and their capacity for kindness. This memoir resonates with anyone who has experienced loss, sought connection, or found solace in the simple act of sharing a meal. It's a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, food can be a catalyst for healing, understanding, and community. Liz Hauck's "Home Made" is a must-read for those seeking inspiration, comfort, and a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of human connection. Readers familiar with books like "Tattoos on the Heart" by Gregory Boyle will find similar themes of compassion and social justice deeply explored in Hauck's work. This title will also appeal to those interested in memoirs focused on grief, social activism, and the impact of community-based initiatives, specifically regarding youth in the care system. Experience a heartfelt journey of remembrance, resilience, and the remarkable things we create when we make dinner.