From Scratch by Tembi Locke was an intriguing and heartfelt memoir. As a wife, mother, and someone familiar with losing a loved one from cancer, this was an emotional read.

My mom, like Locke, lost her husband (my step-dad) a few years ago. While I cannot compare my experience with loss to either of theirs, I’m very close with my mom and often thought of her while reading this story. After telling her about the book over wine one night, I recommended she read it. I also warned her: some parts will be hard, relating to and reliving that loss alongside Locke’s. But, hopefully, it will also be healing.

I think it’s helpful to hear what others have been through, to relate, to learn, to commiserate. However, as it relates to loss, I don’t know that there is a recommended time frame to read someone else’s journey. How soon may be too soon after losing someone you love? I would imagine it’s different for everyone, grieving differently as part of an ongoing process.

As Locke spoons out a vivid picture of love, hospice and loss, she also feeds us a delicious taste of Italy, specifically, Sicily. I found all of the intricate details of Sicilian and Italian culture very interesting, not being Italian myself nor having ever traveled there. I loved how she wove the cultural significance of food into the story.