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Gluten Is My Bitch: Rants, Recipes, and Ridiculousness for the Gluten-Free
Living gluten-free is not a whole lot of fun, but at least April has managed to make it funny. Gluten Is My Bitch is a brutally honest, entertaining look at what living a gluten-free life entails. As an antidote to the tragic news that, no, you will never eat regular donuts again, April provides 40 gluten-free comfort food recipes and a bonus 20 new recipes in the paperback edition that will make even the most frustrated gluten-intolerant smile with relief. In the new paperback, April addresses the challenges of sustaining a gluten-free lifestyle once you’ve transitioned from the gluten-filled world. With updated resources and brand-new recipes for everyday meals, the paperback offers a complete look at living gluten-free for life.
240 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2015
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
May 12, 2016
Allow me to wax poetic about this book for a few minutes. I’ve only recently been diagnosed with Celiac, although I’ve been dealing with the symptoms for close to a year now and this book is a godsend. Most of my research before now has come from forums on celiac.com, which number in the hundreds-of-thousands and aren’t comprehensive in any form of the word. I was able to glean the very basics of what it takes to be truly gluten-free, and I also got really specific information I’ll never have any use for.
All that said, this book should be handed out to every newly-diagnosed gluten-intolerant. I’ll briefly mention the humor – there’s nothing more depressing than reading about your chronic autoimmune disease that forces you to never eat cinnamon rolls again and not even be able to laugh about it. Peveteaux knows exactly how to turn that gluten-less frown upside-down (to the best of her ability; there’s still no cinnamon rolls involved, so…).
In my cursory research, I found myself with about 60% more anxiety about being a celiac-sufferer after reading those forums because EVERYTHING SUCKS and THERE’S NO HELP FOR US! This book really covers all its bases. I found myself wondering if she was going to cover this obscure gluten-related topic or the other, and she did! From the first few weeks of learning you’re basically about to hate everyone around you for being able to eat a baguette, to the evils of cross-contamination, to other restrictive diets, to traveling in the USA or overseas, to airplane food, to debunked meds, to current research on treatments, to helpful hints for parents with celiac kids, to an updated (2013) chapter on gluten-related updates - it's all there! All that, plus a full stock of varied recipes.
This book is inundated with tips for the newbie as well as the celiac veteran, all done with an amazing amount of levity. I only wish I could convince everyone else in my life to read this book so they might realize that Yes, I know that bag says “gluten-free”, but No, that doesn’t actually mean I can eat it. Yes, I appreciate that you're willing to cook gluten-free for me, but No, I don't trust that you've sufficiently bleached every surface of your counterspace beforehand.
She even has a story about asking a server at Chipotle to change his gloves – a situation I’ve very specifically been dreading! I knew from the moment I was diagnosed that my inability to speak up for myself was going to be an issue, especially when it comes to eating out. I wish I had someone in my corner to do it for me, but I suppose I’ll have to be my own advocate. At any rate, I’m glad to see I wasn’t the only one struggling with speaking out and sounding like an asshole when really all I want to do is not DIE, thanks.
Now with a full list of all the kitchen and cooking equipment I’ll need to keep a shared kitchen from become a death sentence, I’m poised to drop another $500 on a debilitating and expensive illness. Yay! At least Peveteaux’s book will be there for me to commiserate after the fact.
All that said, this book should be handed out to every newly-diagnosed gluten-intolerant. I’ll briefly mention the humor – there’s nothing more depressing than reading about your chronic autoimmune disease that forces you to never eat cinnamon rolls again and not even be able to laugh about it. Peveteaux knows exactly how to turn that gluten-less frown upside-down (to the best of her ability; there’s still no cinnamon rolls involved, so…).
In my cursory research, I found myself with about 60% more anxiety about being a celiac-sufferer after reading those forums because EVERYTHING SUCKS and THERE’S NO HELP FOR US! This book really covers all its bases. I found myself wondering if she was going to cover this obscure gluten-related topic or the other, and she did! From the first few weeks of learning you’re basically about to hate everyone around you for being able to eat a baguette, to the evils of cross-contamination, to other restrictive diets, to traveling in the USA or overseas, to airplane food, to debunked meds, to current research on treatments, to helpful hints for parents with celiac kids, to an updated (2013) chapter on gluten-related updates - it's all there! All that, plus a full stock of varied recipes.
This book is inundated with tips for the newbie as well as the celiac veteran, all done with an amazing amount of levity. I only wish I could convince everyone else in my life to read this book so they might realize that Yes, I know that bag says “gluten-free”, but No, that doesn’t actually mean I can eat it. Yes, I appreciate that you're willing to cook gluten-free for me, but No, I don't trust that you've sufficiently bleached every surface of your counterspace beforehand.
She even has a story about asking a server at Chipotle to change his gloves – a situation I’ve very specifically been dreading! I knew from the moment I was diagnosed that my inability to speak up for myself was going to be an issue, especially when it comes to eating out. I wish I had someone in my corner to do it for me, but I suppose I’ll have to be my own advocate. At any rate, I’m glad to see I wasn’t the only one struggling with speaking out and sounding like an asshole when really all I want to do is not DIE, thanks.
Now with a full list of all the kitchen and cooking equipment I’ll need to keep a shared kitchen from become a death sentence, I’m poised to drop another $500 on a debilitating and expensive illness. Yay! At least Peveteaux’s book will be there for me to commiserate after the fact.
February 5, 2017
I would recommend this book for anyone who was told by a medical professional that they have to give up gluten... for the rest of their lives. For those who do so voluntarily without a medical need, I must ask you why? Why give up all that delicious gluteny goodness when you don't have to? I would cut a bitch for a croissant. Seriously.
This book would have been amazing to read back in 2012 when I stopped being stubborn and realized I had to give up the gluten. Any version of bread was my favorite since I was a child. I was a picky eater (I didn't know vegetarian was an option), so going to fancy seafood restaurant with family translated to me filling up on sourdough rolls. That's pretty much how I existed all the way through college. Studying abroad as a vegetarian? Just eat tomato and cheese baguettes everyday! That skinny bitch didn't know how good she had it.
Then came 2006 when I started having symptoms of my autoimmune disease. After five years of seeing every specialist I could think up for my variety of ailments (I was either declared a mystery or perfectly fine by said specialists), I finally used Dr. Internet and all those wonderful people writing about their experiences on message boards to diagnose myself with Hashimotos. Then I found a doctor who was willing to do the antibody blood test that confirmed it. Yay. After a year of reading everything I could find written by specialists on Hashimotos, I realized I had to stop ignoring the parts about those of us with the thyroid autoimmune having to go gluten-free for the rest of our lives. I still feel terrible most days because of my autoimmune, but things are so much better without the pain and damage gluten was causing in my body.
This book describes every frustration and mistake of my transition to going gluten-free. I laughed all the way through the book, which is why it would be so amazing to read when you are first starting out. The author does not judge you for the anger or self-pity. She acknowledges it sucks, and then she throws in some recipes that allow you to still eat delicious food. She describes the shame of being that "special" person with food issues when going out to eat, but also encourages you to learn from her (many) mistakes and take care of yourself as you would someone you love. There is also a really great chapter for parents of children who have to go gluten-free, and the recipes in that chapter are some of the ones I am most eager to try. The paperback has additional (and healthier) recipes included at the end.
This book would have been amazing to read back in 2012 when I stopped being stubborn and realized I had to give up the gluten. Any version of bread was my favorite since I was a child. I was a picky eater (I didn't know vegetarian was an option), so going to fancy seafood restaurant with family translated to me filling up on sourdough rolls. That's pretty much how I existed all the way through college. Studying abroad as a vegetarian? Just eat tomato and cheese baguettes everyday! That skinny bitch didn't know how good she had it.
Then came 2006 when I started having symptoms of my autoimmune disease. After five years of seeing every specialist I could think up for my variety of ailments (I was either declared a mystery or perfectly fine by said specialists), I finally used Dr. Internet and all those wonderful people writing about their experiences on message boards to diagnose myself with Hashimotos. Then I found a doctor who was willing to do the antibody blood test that confirmed it. Yay. After a year of reading everything I could find written by specialists on Hashimotos, I realized I had to stop ignoring the parts about those of us with the thyroid autoimmune having to go gluten-free for the rest of our lives. I still feel terrible most days because of my autoimmune, but things are so much better without the pain and damage gluten was causing in my body.
This book describes every frustration and mistake of my transition to going gluten-free. I laughed all the way through the book, which is why it would be so amazing to read when you are first starting out. The author does not judge you for the anger or self-pity. She acknowledges it sucks, and then she throws in some recipes that allow you to still eat delicious food. She describes the shame of being that "special" person with food issues when going out to eat, but also encourages you to learn from her (many) mistakes and take care of yourself as you would someone you love. There is also a really great chapter for parents of children who have to go gluten-free, and the recipes in that chapter are some of the ones I am most eager to try. The paperback has additional (and healthier) recipes included at the end.
April 3, 2014
I've been in denial about my gluten sensitivity. Having been eating Paleo (no grains, dairy or legumes) for 2.5 years, I've experienced the best health of my life - but also the worst social experiences around food EVER. When trying to explain close relatives who don't understand why I can't eat the way they do without getting sick, I decided to look more into gluten sensitivity for an easier explanation, and BAM, there it was.
If you have people in your life who eat differently than you, due to Celiac or any other food sensitivity or allergy, this is a good book to read. Yes, food sensitivities are real, and are no fun to deal with. Reading this book made me feel that navigating social eating outside of my home is possible. It's ok and often necessary to make a big deal about what I don't eat and why. This book has changed my mind about talking about my own health, along with letting other people know how I feel when I eat something that doesn't agree with me, rather than just clamming up and wallowing in my own misery. If more people around me understand what happens when I eat wheat, they're more likely to help me avoid it in the future instead of trying to sneak it into my food. Of course, not everyone has passive-aggressive food allergy deniers in their lives, but I think having read this will help with mine.
That being said, not all of the details in this book agree with other resources I've read. This is not a book about nutrition or biology. For super clear information on what the gluten sensitive person needs to avoid, I'd look for additional sources.
If you have people in your life who eat differently than you, due to Celiac or any other food sensitivity or allergy, this is a good book to read. Yes, food sensitivities are real, and are no fun to deal with. Reading this book made me feel that navigating social eating outside of my home is possible. It's ok and often necessary to make a big deal about what I don't eat and why. This book has changed my mind about talking about my own health, along with letting other people know how I feel when I eat something that doesn't agree with me, rather than just clamming up and wallowing in my own misery. If more people around me understand what happens when I eat wheat, they're more likely to help me avoid it in the future instead of trying to sneak it into my food. Of course, not everyone has passive-aggressive food allergy deniers in their lives, but I think having read this will help with mine.
That being said, not all of the details in this book agree with other resources I've read. This is not a book about nutrition or biology. For super clear information on what the gluten sensitive person needs to avoid, I'd look for additional sources.
March 7, 2020
Never have I felt so seen by a book in all my days. I have a vastly different experience with gluten than the author, but she still managed to sum up all my experiences on the page, from the horrible to the funny to the joyous. I won’t deny that she has a privileged viewpoint, but she is very aware of that privilege so it doesn’t come across as too preachy. (Plus, I live a similar lifestyle so if anything that made it easier for me personally to relate.)
As a gluten intolerant person, I can safely say that the most difficult thing about the disorder is lack of empathy/understanding from the gluten tolerant. My own family regularly taunts me or gets offended when I stand up for myself at meals. So having access to book that not only gets that, but is also funny and informative, is ineffably valuable. I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone on the gluten-free spectrum.
As a gluten intolerant person, I can safely say that the most difficult thing about the disorder is lack of empathy/understanding from the gluten tolerant. My own family regularly taunts me or gets offended when I stand up for myself at meals. So having access to book that not only gets that, but is also funny and informative, is ineffably valuable. I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone on the gluten-free spectrum.
December 6, 2018
So clearly I bought this one because of the title. The cover is rather clever too. However, I think I should have looked at the publication date, because this book came out in 2015, and there have been a lot of advancements in gluten free products since then.
It was still an enjoyable read. The recipes won't really work for me though a) because a number of them are fried or full of sugar and b) because I also recently went dairy free. When you feel awful every day it isn't as hard as you think it would be to start eliminating food to try to understand what is causing the problem.
I liked the chapter about the author's gluten free exploits in Paris. I cannot even imagine trying to go to Paris and be gluten free, so props to her. This book was really more entertaining than useful for me. The author has Celiac disease, and according to my doctor who tested me, I just have an intolerance. However, I appreciate how Peveteaux treats all people who can't consume gluten as equals. The world doesn't really do that as much.
If you have recently been diagnosed with Celiac disease or you have a child that has been diagnosed, this is a good book to pick up. Especially if you like a dose of humor with your gluten issues.
It was still an enjoyable read. The recipes won't really work for me though a) because a number of them are fried or full of sugar and b) because I also recently went dairy free. When you feel awful every day it isn't as hard as you think it would be to start eliminating food to try to understand what is causing the problem.
I liked the chapter about the author's gluten free exploits in Paris. I cannot even imagine trying to go to Paris and be gluten free, so props to her. This book was really more entertaining than useful for me. The author has Celiac disease, and according to my doctor who tested me, I just have an intolerance. However, I appreciate how Peveteaux treats all people who can't consume gluten as equals. The world doesn't really do that as much.
If you have recently been diagnosed with Celiac disease or you have a child that has been diagnosed, this is a good book to pick up. Especially if you like a dose of humor with your gluten issues.
March 10, 2018
2.5 stars
So the good things: it is fairly funny, and at the same time, an important acknowledgement of how much this disease sucks. It is nice to have some reicpes (the double chocolate oatmeal cookies were a hit with both my celiac and non-celiac daughters). It is a fairly quick and easy read. As someone planning a trip to Paris, it was good luck that she had some restaurant suggestions.
the things that were not helpful: the 'train of thought' style of writing sometimes left me wondering what her meaning was. "Wait, cheerios aren't gluten free?!?!" (in this case, I wonder if the book was being written at the time of the recall a few years back) She would describe a laid back attitude in a restaurant, then remind us that this kind of attitude is a bad idea, but then go back again. . . I kept reminding myself that this was written by a blogger, and so the style is in that unique style of that genre. This is a book to comfort and relate to people with Celiac--NOT to inform anyone on how to deal with this disease.
Finally--for tle love of God--If you are writing a chapter on parenting kids with celiac (probably DON'T if you aren't actually parenting kids with celiac) but absolutely do not include the phrase, "Here are some recipes that my kids chow down on like they're celiacs (which they 're not Thank god)". (pg. 156) UM. . . REALLY?!?!?!? FYI--your readers' kids likely are celiacs, and so, while I would never wish celiac on any child, it is kind of clueless that she chose to include that aside, and it is, frankly, shitty editing that that phrase was left in.
I am glad I read it, but more glad that I got it from the library rather than adding it to my personal library.
So the good things: it is fairly funny, and at the same time, an important acknowledgement of how much this disease sucks. It is nice to have some reicpes (the double chocolate oatmeal cookies were a hit with both my celiac and non-celiac daughters). It is a fairly quick and easy read. As someone planning a trip to Paris, it was good luck that she had some restaurant suggestions.
the things that were not helpful: the 'train of thought' style of writing sometimes left me wondering what her meaning was. "Wait, cheerios aren't gluten free?!?!" (in this case, I wonder if the book was being written at the time of the recall a few years back) She would describe a laid back attitude in a restaurant, then remind us that this kind of attitude is a bad idea, but then go back again. . . I kept reminding myself that this was written by a blogger, and so the style is in that unique style of that genre. This is a book to comfort and relate to people with Celiac--NOT to inform anyone on how to deal with this disease.
Finally--for tle love of God--If you are writing a chapter on parenting kids with celiac (probably DON'T if you aren't actually parenting kids with celiac) but absolutely do not include the phrase, "Here are some recipes that my kids chow down on like they're celiacs (which they 're not Thank god)". (pg. 156) UM. . . REALLY?!?!?!? FYI--your readers' kids likely are celiacs, and so, while I would never wish celiac on any child, it is kind of clueless that she chose to include that aside, and it is, frankly, shitty editing that that phrase was left in.
I am glad I read it, but more glad that I got it from the library rather than adding it to my personal library.
February 25, 2019
If you have Celiac disease or are wheat intolerant (like me), get this book from the library, don’t buy it. First, even though the latest edition adds a chapter with new recipes at the end, the rest of the book isn’t updated. It is written with humor, but not everyone will appreciate the humor.
There’s some value in learning where gluten hides, like in vitamins (who knew?) and of course, a lot of discussion about reading labels. Today, it’s much easier to identify items with wheat/gluten than even a few years ago when this was originally published.
What’s of less value is the conversational style writing that is less content driven and more fluff than typical in a resource book. The majority of the recipes are fatty, fried, or otherwise not so healthy. The recipes in the last chapter are better, but again, there are so few, it wasn’t worth purchasing the book.
She spends a chapter of more talking about what to do if you are traveling to Paris, like that is common, but lots of folks don’t have the time, money, or ability to travel. She could have been more sensitive about that, oui?
Two stars for the good information. No extra stars because the updated edition just tacked on a chapter instead of actually updating the book, which was a lazy way to go. The recipes are mostly not healthy, which she even acknowledges.
There’s some value in learning where gluten hides, like in vitamins (who knew?) and of course, a lot of discussion about reading labels. Today, it’s much easier to identify items with wheat/gluten than even a few years ago when this was originally published.
What’s of less value is the conversational style writing that is less content driven and more fluff than typical in a resource book. The majority of the recipes are fatty, fried, or otherwise not so healthy. The recipes in the last chapter are better, but again, there are so few, it wasn’t worth purchasing the book.
She spends a chapter of more talking about what to do if you are traveling to Paris, like that is common, but lots of folks don’t have the time, money, or ability to travel. She could have been more sensitive about that, oui?
Two stars for the good information. No extra stars because the updated edition just tacked on a chapter instead of actually updating the book, which was a lazy way to go. The recipes are mostly not healthy, which she even acknowledges.
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November 9, 2015This is really funny. A fellow glutie recommended it just as a fun read, not because I am recently changed/diagnosed. I did find a few recipes I want to try, and I just thought it was hilarious. I would totally give this book to someone over (well, in addition to - it's not so heavy on science) the For Dummies book I read when I first switched over. And it really did convince me that I have to be more careful with my cross contamination, since I still feel crappy a lot. Funny and useful for the new GF convert, with good connections to other special diets (whether we believe in paleo or vegan or think they're both silly, we all have to stick together when it comes to people making fun of us or going out and not being able to eat anything), complaints and appreciation for the idiots who think GF is a weight-loss diet or who "try" to be GF (complaints because they're idiots who don't even know what gluten is most of the time, appreciation because they increase the demand for better labeling and grocery store stock), and great resources for travel and restaurants.
February 28, 2019
I've been in tremendous and inconvienient pain because of the devil, gluten. It took my team of doctors and I a long time (an unreasonable amount of time in my opinion) to determine gluten was the leading cause of my out-of-nowhere unpleasant symptoms. April's insight, humor, recipes, stories, and tips shed so much light on what I'm calling my new and unfortunate "situation". It was the education I needed to help better understand how to manage gluten in my life (since only a year ago I did not know squat about gluten!), and it was the comic relief I needed while I was suffering for 3 days straight after I'd been glutened. Because you know, it is super comforting knowing you're not the only person who has to use the bathroom 25 times in 48 hours after you accidentally consume a rice noodle dish that had that sneaky soy sauce hidden inside it. If you can't eat gluten or if you have a loved one who can't eat gluten, I highly reccomend you read this! You absolutely will learn something new and most likely figure out at least one way to improve your gluten-less diet. Now I just need to get on my cooking game and try out these delicious sounding recipes that won't kill me...yay!
September 25, 2018
This is more like a 3.5 Star book. I think it deserved the 4 star rating because ultimately, it is a great resource book that provides recipes, products, restaurants, perspective, advice and tips that are good for the gluten-intolerant / allergic and those who live with them. I have not tried any of her recipes yet, but they look legit, so my rating isn’t based on those.
I’m not a fan of the blogger-tone of the book, as it feels a little too snarky at times. I get it, because being allergic to gluten sucks and having people blame you or be flippant about it sucks worse, but the tone is consistent enough that it got tiring. I’m sure many people like this tone.
Overall, the author is pretty wise beneath the snark. Don’t be a hero about your gluten allergy. Don’t be insufferable about it, but don’t suffer because you don’t want to make others feel uncomfortable. It genuinely sucks to get “glutened” and there’s no sense in letting yourself get dosed because you didn’t speak up about it.
And ultimately, not being allowed to eat gluten is the perfect time to just starting to eat healthier.
I’m not a fan of the blogger-tone of the book, as it feels a little too snarky at times. I get it, because being allergic to gluten sucks and having people blame you or be flippant about it sucks worse, but the tone is consistent enough that it got tiring. I’m sure many people like this tone.
Overall, the author is pretty wise beneath the snark. Don’t be a hero about your gluten allergy. Don’t be insufferable about it, but don’t suffer because you don’t want to make others feel uncomfortable. It genuinely sucks to get “glutened” and there’s no sense in letting yourself get dosed because you didn’t speak up about it.
And ultimately, not being allowed to eat gluten is the perfect time to just starting to eat healthier.
April 10, 2014
I had mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, it was humorous and had some great stories and information. On the other hand, I think some of the advice she gave was bad. I have Celiac Disease and have to be much more careful about the gluten-free diet than she is. She mentions that she takes risks when eating out. That's fine, but not good advice for many with Celiac Disease and severe gluten intolerance. I also think that some of her claims are questionable, such as drugs to help remove gluten. Where does she get this information from? I enjoyed her recipes, however.
July 19, 2016
Funny stuff. I enjoyed the authors sense of humor and bevy of expletives. Celiac disease merits a good number of expletives. I was very happy to read someone else's account of Celiac that didn't end it roses and sunshine and living happily ever after. Plenty of lovely looking gluten free recipes, but I don't know if it's a positive that I now have a recipe for GF ding dongs.
November 25, 2018
I appreciate the sarcasm, humor, frustration, and struggle that April brings into the book. We've all been there. I wish, however, that she didn't play fast & loose with her diet sometimes; I know she warns in the book to be strictly GF, but falling off the wagon herself, it sort of condones doing the same. We with Celiac disease have to be ever vigilant.
November 4, 2022
This was a fun read!! It felt so validating as a person with celiac. I kind of wish non-celiac folks would read it too so that they can understand what this disease is like.
I especially appreciated April's handling of the topic of whether or not to eat out at restaurants. This is such a difficult decision and so individual. The vast, vast majority of the restaurants that say their food is gluten free are cross contaminating it in some way due to negligence or even complete lack of concern. If you go to a pizza parlor that serves wheat crusts and says they also have gluten free crusts...they do not! Flour is flying all around and it sticks to everything, which is something the author talks about in-depth in this book.
Loved the recipes, too. Definitely going to be making those mini lasagnas and the devil's food cake...:)
I especially appreciated April's handling of the topic of whether or not to eat out at restaurants. This is such a difficult decision and so individual. The vast, vast majority of the restaurants that say their food is gluten free are cross contaminating it in some way due to negligence or even complete lack of concern. If you go to a pizza parlor that serves wheat crusts and says they also have gluten free crusts...they do not! Flour is flying all around and it sticks to everything, which is something the author talks about in-depth in this book.
Loved the recipes, too. Definitely going to be making those mini lasagnas and the devil's food cake...:)
June 19, 2017
A nice, lightly funny take on dealing with Celiac disease that doesn't moralize food and eating. The book starts with a candid discussion of the process and importance of a Celiac diagnosis and ends with a discussion of potential treatments that are being researched. In between, Peveteaux covers everything from finding GF food abroad to which GF flours are worth the money. Some parts of the book were not particularly useful to me (I could have done without the paleo/veg chapter) but most of the writing was engaging, with plenty of personal stories from the author regarding her own discoveries and missteps. The best and most practical parts of the book for me were the anecdotes and advice about how to advocate for yourself when eating out, something I suspect may take me a while to feel fully confident about.
May 9, 2022
Since May is Celiac Disease Awareness month, I thought I would read something appropriate, given that I have the disease and I haven't really read a book about it yet. This is a great book for the newly diagnosed, and I think I would have gotten way more out of it had I read it four years ago. As it stands it's still a great resource, and let's be fair, it's nice to read about someone who is in your exact predicament. Commiseration is important. Peveteaux approaches the disease and its aspects with humor, and hits the nail on the head more than once, and I found myself giggling at her observations. There are a lot of things she mentions that I already know, especially about things like the process for eating out at restaurants and cross-contamination- but are really important things for the newly diagnosed to understand.
I did appreciate the inclusion of recipes as well, and even tried some, just to round out my review- the Chess Pie and the Mexican Corn Bread were very good, but very sugary (as advertised) and very dairy filled, respectively. There are a few other recipes she has where I've made something very similar, but not that exact thing, so I think I'm on the right track!
A few things left me wanting. First, she fries A LOT. As someone who couldn't handle fried food even before my diagnosis, these recipes are completely off the table. Secondly, the majority of the recipes are chock full of dairy- cheese, buttermilk, butter, you name it. They won't help those who are avoiding dairy as well. She also advocates eating whatever you want after your diagnosis because you're going to be sad, and I see where she's coming from, but I can't condone it. I understand the culinary depression that comes from upending your life, but that doesn't give you free reign to eat nothing but french fries, gf pizza and ice cream. Your gut might be ok, but your arteries and heart certainly won't be. Also, who the heck books a trip to Paris immediately after your Celiac diagnosis without speaking the language? Sorry, but what a dumb move.
Other than that, I did enjoy myself with this little book, and I'm keeping it around for some of the recipes. I'd love to see April write more about trips to other countries (with a translator in tow, please) now that she's a seasoned Celiac. And, it's been several years since her last update in the medical world- I know the vaccine fizzled but I'd love to know what else is out there being developed.
Great book for new celiacs, and some great recipes for those of us who've been around the gluten free block a few times.
I did appreciate the inclusion of recipes as well, and even tried some, just to round out my review- the Chess Pie and the Mexican Corn Bread were very good, but very sugary (as advertised) and very dairy filled, respectively. There are a few other recipes she has where I've made something very similar, but not that exact thing, so I think I'm on the right track!
A few things left me wanting. First, she fries A LOT. As someone who couldn't handle fried food even before my diagnosis, these recipes are completely off the table. Secondly, the majority of the recipes are chock full of dairy- cheese, buttermilk, butter, you name it. They won't help those who are avoiding dairy as well. She also advocates eating whatever you want after your diagnosis because you're going to be sad, and I see where she's coming from, but I can't condone it. I understand the culinary depression that comes from upending your life, but that doesn't give you free reign to eat nothing but french fries, gf pizza and ice cream. Your gut might be ok, but your arteries and heart certainly won't be. Also, who the heck books a trip to Paris immediately after your Celiac diagnosis without speaking the language? Sorry, but what a dumb move.
Other than that, I did enjoy myself with this little book, and I'm keeping it around for some of the recipes. I'd love to see April write more about trips to other countries (with a translator in tow, please) now that she's a seasoned Celiac. And, it's been several years since her last update in the medical world- I know the vaccine fizzled but I'd love to know what else is out there being developed.
Great book for new celiacs, and some great recipes for those of us who've been around the gluten free block a few times.
January 3, 2019
An easy read and a good resource for someone who unlike me was recently diagnosed with Celiac (or for the person who wants to be the best possible support for someone with Celiac disease).
Stealing a comment from the back of the book, the author is basically Chelsea Handler of gluten. That pretty much sums up the writing style, the book was pretty easy to get through.
This book covers the basics about surviving gluten free which I'll tell you is hard. The read was mostly a review for me but I recently found out about the vaccines and this book came out in 2014 it was mentioned within, so I should have found this sooner I guess. Anyway refer to the first sentence and if this describes you I'd read this book.
Stealing a comment from the back of the book, the author is basically Chelsea Handler of gluten. That pretty much sums up the writing style, the book was pretty easy to get through.
This book covers the basics about surviving gluten free which I'll tell you is hard. The read was mostly a review for me but I recently found out about the vaccines and this book came out in 2014 it was mentioned within, so I should have found this sooner I guess. Anyway refer to the first sentence and if this describes you I'd read this book.
June 4, 2022
In the beginning, I found this very empowering. Yes. I'm gluten free. No. It is not a choice (seriously, why would I choose this of all things). No. I don't want want to make a nuisance of myself but I can't eat what you're offering. Yes. I will ask every time if it's gluten free. And I'm an with April here, I knowingly take risks when eating and am pleased to say that impact on me has been minimal.
She kinda lost me through all the France stuff. Who goes overseas without doing serious research about where you can and can't eat and what you can and can't eat. I know France is off my list but I have traveled repeatedly to Japan without being glutened because I undertake serious research before getting on that plane (and I eat very well in Japan).
I understand this is for life and am not terribly worried about pills and such that will allow me to eat gluten again.
However, April is honest and funny about the whole thing. Definitely worth a read.
She kinda lost me through all the France stuff. Who goes overseas without doing serious research about where you can and can't eat and what you can and can't eat. I know France is off my list but I have traveled repeatedly to Japan without being glutened because I undertake serious research before getting on that plane (and I eat very well in Japan).
I understand this is for life and am not terribly worried about pills and such that will allow me to eat gluten again.
However, April is honest and funny about the whole thing. Definitely worth a read.
March 9, 2022
I enjoyed this. It didn't bother me that there were lots of American terms (as stated by other reviewers) because after all, the author is American and we do have Google! There were some really handy hints and tips and some of the recipes (especially the added ones in the extended copy) are lovely. I might have missed something on pages 60 and 66 though as the Prize Coffee Cake doesn't seem to list coffee as an ingredient and the Crispy Garlic Smashed Potatoes contain no garlic.
January 15, 2018
This book was soooo funny! I really needed this in my gluten free life. Some of the recipes look great and I will try them out but to be honest, this book alone without the recipes is amazing all on its own. If you have gluten issues or someone in your life is does please read this book! It really gives much comic relief to such a crappy situation to be going through.
April 29, 2020
Funny, relatable, nice to see I’m not the only one struggling with stuff. However, some outdated information, and a lot of the info is American, so some brands and store names aren’t helpful to a Canadian.
August 10, 2016
My relationship with food has always been difficult. I love to eat good food but I feel sick to my stomach after every meal. Luckily I was not alone in my suffering, my Dad and brother both have the same sensitive stomach as I. Dad’s got so bad that he went on an elimination diet to figure out the cause. Now, if you think that sounds bad you are absolutely right. It meant cutting out nearly every food and keeping a detailed record of the results. Eventually, he found that he felt better avoiding gluten and dairy. I suspected that I too might feel better if I joined him on his new diet. So, I tried it and my stomach issues got better. I hoped that it wouldn’t work and I could merrily enjoy cheese and bread. But, it was not to be. I felt lucky that my Dad had already found what and where gluten free foods are available in Yakima.
I have been mostly gluten and dairy free for a few years now. I read a description of Gluten is my Bitch by April Peveteaux and I immediately thought “where was this when I stopped eating gluten?”. Her frank description of life without gluten startled me. But, I totally related to her struggles. The gluten-free books I’ve read neglected to mention that life without gluten is difficult. April reassured me that it’s going to be all right and made me laugh about it. I’d just eaten my mom’s delicious fresh cherry pie (gluten filled) when I started this book. April’s hilarious discussions of the ill effects reminded me how much better I feel when I eat gluten-free. Her recipes include a wide range of food from gluten-free southern comfort to paleo. What I also liked is that she includes a chapter on eating out. Rather than expecting you to grill the wait staff, she recommends politely telling them about your allergies and acknowledging that it’s a bit tricky for their great kitchen staff. She also suggests large tips and not returning if you feel sick afterwards. I feel horribly rude not eating everything on my plate even if it’ll make me sick, but her vivid descriptions of her struggle to learn to be assertive resonated with me. I’ve been inspired to branch out and try some of the new local restaurants.
Once you have some experience living gluten-free, buying a copy of 1,000 Gluten-Free Recipes by Carol Fenster is wise. At my house, we now say go ask Carol when we have a gluten-free question. Her book seems intimidating (it’s 700 pages long), but I haven’t made one recipe from it that has failed. I use it so often that I’ve lost track of how many I have made. The recipes include extremely detailed instructions which is why they work. I realize trying recipes from pinterest sounds fun but having one flop is expensive with all the gluten-free ingredients. The introduction provides a great description of all the strange ingredients required for gluten-free cooking and baking. She also includes recommended substitutions for the major allergens if they are included in a recipe. This is very helpful because I avoid dairy as well. Be sure to try one of my favorites the Cranberry-Clementine Scones with Clementine Glaze.
1,000 Gluten-Free Recipes helps fills the vacuum left by Betty Crocker’s Cookbook in a gluten-free kitchen. It’s my go to gluten-free cookbook recommendation. But, I can’t think of a better introduction to the gluten-free life than Gluten is my Bitch. The balance of humor and helpful information kept me interested and entertained. I highly recommend this to my fellow gluten intolerant folk or anyone who knows one.
I have been mostly gluten and dairy free for a few years now. I read a description of Gluten is my Bitch by April Peveteaux and I immediately thought “where was this when I stopped eating gluten?”. Her frank description of life without gluten startled me. But, I totally related to her struggles. The gluten-free books I’ve read neglected to mention that life without gluten is difficult. April reassured me that it’s going to be all right and made me laugh about it. I’d just eaten my mom’s delicious fresh cherry pie (gluten filled) when I started this book. April’s hilarious discussions of the ill effects reminded me how much better I feel when I eat gluten-free. Her recipes include a wide range of food from gluten-free southern comfort to paleo. What I also liked is that she includes a chapter on eating out. Rather than expecting you to grill the wait staff, she recommends politely telling them about your allergies and acknowledging that it’s a bit tricky for their great kitchen staff. She also suggests large tips and not returning if you feel sick afterwards. I feel horribly rude not eating everything on my plate even if it’ll make me sick, but her vivid descriptions of her struggle to learn to be assertive resonated with me. I’ve been inspired to branch out and try some of the new local restaurants.
Once you have some experience living gluten-free, buying a copy of 1,000 Gluten-Free Recipes by Carol Fenster is wise. At my house, we now say go ask Carol when we have a gluten-free question. Her book seems intimidating (it’s 700 pages long), but I haven’t made one recipe from it that has failed. I use it so often that I’ve lost track of how many I have made. The recipes include extremely detailed instructions which is why they work. I realize trying recipes from pinterest sounds fun but having one flop is expensive with all the gluten-free ingredients. The introduction provides a great description of all the strange ingredients required for gluten-free cooking and baking. She also includes recommended substitutions for the major allergens if they are included in a recipe. This is very helpful because I avoid dairy as well. Be sure to try one of my favorites the Cranberry-Clementine Scones with Clementine Glaze.
1,000 Gluten-Free Recipes helps fills the vacuum left by Betty Crocker’s Cookbook in a gluten-free kitchen. It’s my go to gluten-free cookbook recommendation. But, I can’t think of a better introduction to the gluten-free life than Gluten is my Bitch. The balance of humor and helpful information kept me interested and entertained. I highly recommend this to my fellow gluten intolerant folk or anyone who knows one.
January 3, 2018
2.5 rounded down
After 3 or 4 months of eating gluten again at the end of 2016 I've had to stop eating it again, and am always looking for fun recipes, so thought that this would make an interesting read.
I really liked the recipes (obviously all GF recipes, with GF vegan and paleo ones included too), but the writing style is definitely not for me. This reads like a load of blog posts cobbled together, which I guess appeals to some people but wasn't what I expected. Also not too sure how reliable some of the information provided is about drugs and things like that. And I mean, a few poo jokes are ok (honestly never thought I'd type that sentence in my life...) but they were so frequent I got bored of them 10% in. Like, we get it. Gluten allergies make you bloated and needing to use the bathroom more frequently. But do you really need to make a joke about it every other page? To be honest I ended up skimming most of the earlier parts, reading the bits which seemed more informative, and read the recipes in more detail.
I'll definitely be trying out some of these recipes and they've given me some good ideas, I'm afraid I just don't enjoy the authors almost rambling/chatty writing style, didn't care about all the anecdotes and stuff like that.
After 3 or 4 months of eating gluten again at the end of 2016 I've had to stop eating it again, and am always looking for fun recipes, so thought that this would make an interesting read.
I really liked the recipes (obviously all GF recipes, with GF vegan and paleo ones included too), but the writing style is definitely not for me. This reads like a load of blog posts cobbled together, which I guess appeals to some people but wasn't what I expected. Also not too sure how reliable some of the information provided is about drugs and things like that. And I mean, a few poo jokes are ok (honestly never thought I'd type that sentence in my life...) but they were so frequent I got bored of them 10% in. Like, we get it. Gluten allergies make you bloated and needing to use the bathroom more frequently. But do you really need to make a joke about it every other page? To be honest I ended up skimming most of the earlier parts, reading the bits which seemed more informative, and read the recipes in more detail.
I'll definitely be trying out some of these recipes and they've given me some good ideas, I'm afraid I just don't enjoy the authors almost rambling/chatty writing style, didn't care about all the anecdotes and stuff like that.
July 28, 2017
Finally an author who speaks the truth about having celiac. She is honest about feelings such as gluten envy and just plain being ticked off at this forced lifetime sentence. Yes, I am grateful I don't have a worse disease, but I also have feelings of bitterness and anger. April is the first author I have come across who doesn't don a cheerleading outfit, cheering the praises of the gluten free diet. Frankly, being gf sucks. She agrees with me so therefore I like her book.
March 26, 2015
Loved how she was brutally honest about beingGF. Being GF sucks and I really don't like reading blogs that say going GF is the best decision I'll ever make bc frankly, there are times I just want to live off of pizza.
The author was very relatable and pretty funny. Really glad I got my hands on this book.
The author was very relatable and pretty funny. Really glad I got my hands on this book.
April 17, 2013
I love her blog and her humor. I'm so exited to read the book.
January 6, 2015
Skimpy on the recipes, but heavy on the empathy and humour, which is frankly what you need more of when you find out you have Coeliac disease... enjoyed it.
September 1, 2016
Very funny, but one star off because I wholeheartedly disagreed with some of her recommendations, especially regarding diagnosis.
September 6, 2023
Did not finish. I had to stop when the author went on a rant about how GMOs are bad for you. I’m surprised an editor didn’t say anything about this.
September 17, 2019
★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
blockquote>Here's the thing about going gluten-free, whether you've been given a celiac disease diagnosis or just know you feel better when you're not enjoying cinnamon rolls for breakfast, flatbread pizza for lunch, and a pile of spaghetti Bolognese for dinner: It's f******g hard. I won't sugarcoat that for you . . . Smiling through the pain of watching your friends enjoy unlimited breadsticks while your plate sits empty does not change the intensity of our shared gluten-free torment. Let's own that pain and complain about it until we're asked to leave the party. It's not all about wallowing in self-pity, though plenty of that is certainly in order. You are giving up chocolate croissants, after all.
This was a fun, fun, book that I'm glad I gave a shot to. I stumbled onto it while browsing my library's audiobook collection. I don't have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance or anything beyond a strong tendency to over-indulge, but I do have a child who was recently diagnosed with Celiac disease—and she has not enjoyed the last 10 months at all because of it. I thought I'd try the book to see if I could find any tips for her.
What I found was a laugh-out-loud (multiple times) funny book about the trials and tribulations—plus the occasional triumph—of having Celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, or in her words:
We haven't had the chance to use the supplement, "Recipes for the Downtrodden (AKA The Gluten Free)" but they look good. But I can say she takes care of the other two goals just fine.
Starting with talking about her own diagnosis, and some signs that others might look out for, as a way of establishing that she's coming at this from someone who needs to be gluten-free and understands the plight of her readers, Peveteaux then moves on into the life of the gluten-free eater. She covers a lot of the changes that people have to make—including ones that are not obvious—the struggles to eat at a restaurant or a friend's/relative's house, where gluten can hide (on ingredient lists as well as the kitchen), how to raise a gluten-free kid (whether or not the parent is), travel tips (largely based on her own trip to Paris, I can't imagine trying that), and a look at some of the treatments that are being worked on by medical researchers (and some loons). She closes with some thoughts on gluten-free resources/foods/sources, to help the reader out.
One of the chapters I enjoyed the most was where she discussed the overlap between the gluten-free crowd and Vegan, Crossfit and Paleo eaters (if the book was written now, she'd also include Keto, I think). She manages to poke fun at the groups as well as embrace them as allies and co-belligerents in the restrictive eating trenches. The other thing I appreciated was the encouragement to advocate to yourself without being obnoxious (or realize you're coming across as obnoxious and at least be aware of it to diminish its impact) in various spheres of life—when it comes to something as vital as the food you put in your mouth, and the ubiquity of gluten, you've got to.
Peveteaux is serious about the disease/intolerance, but not about anything else. She makes fun of herself, her inclinations and suffering—helping her readers to do the same for their struggles. The book is a great mix of advice and laughs, guidance and goofiness.
It's read by the author, and she does a great job with it (as is so often the case). She comes across as the friendly guide to the life sentence that is a gluten-free life from someone walking the same path, so she knows where the potholes are as well as where the best views can be found.
Yeah, it's a bit dated—thankfully, there are more options in the market now than there were at publication (conversely, there's a lot more hidden gluten sources, too)—and once or twice it steps over the tasteful line (and does the cha-cha down it most of the time), which makes it hard for Dad to hand to his daughter (who probably hears worse multiple times before her first class starts, but is wise enough not to tell her Old Man). But, I am going to buy a copy of this and put it in her hand. I think she'll like the approach to the subject, the voice, and tips, but most of all just knowing that she's not alone in her suffering—but seeing that you can laugh at it, too. I know I did.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
blockquote>Here's the thing about going gluten-free, whether you've been given a celiac disease diagnosis or just know you feel better when you're not enjoying cinnamon rolls for breakfast, flatbread pizza for lunch, and a pile of spaghetti Bolognese for dinner: It's f******g hard. I won't sugarcoat that for you . . . Smiling through the pain of watching your friends enjoy unlimited breadsticks while your plate sits empty does not change the intensity of our shared gluten-free torment. Let's own that pain and complain about it until we're asked to leave the party. It's not all about wallowing in self-pity, though plenty of that is certainly in order. You are giving up chocolate croissants, after all.
This was a fun, fun, book that I'm glad I gave a shot to. I stumbled onto it while browsing my library's audiobook collection. I don't have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance or anything beyond a strong tendency to over-indulge, but I do have a child who was recently diagnosed with Celiac disease—and she has not enjoyed the last 10 months at all because of it. I thought I'd try the book to see if I could find any tips for her.
What I found was a laugh-out-loud (multiple times) funny book about the trials and tribulations—plus the occasional triumph—of having Celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, or in her words:
a little guidance, maybe some crazy delicious recipes, and a whole lot of poop jokes.
We haven't had the chance to use the supplement, "Recipes for the Downtrodden (AKA The Gluten Free)" but they look good. But I can say she takes care of the other two goals just fine.
Starting with talking about her own diagnosis, and some signs that others might look out for, as a way of establishing that she's coming at this from someone who needs to be gluten-free and understands the plight of her readers, Peveteaux then moves on into the life of the gluten-free eater. She covers a lot of the changes that people have to make—including ones that are not obvious—the struggles to eat at a restaurant or a friend's/relative's house, where gluten can hide (on ingredient lists as well as the kitchen), how to raise a gluten-free kid (whether or not the parent is), travel tips (largely based on her own trip to Paris, I can't imagine trying that), and a look at some of the treatments that are being worked on by medical researchers (and some loons). She closes with some thoughts on gluten-free resources/foods/sources, to help the reader out.
One of the chapters I enjoyed the most was where she discussed the overlap between the gluten-free crowd and Vegan, Crossfit and Paleo eaters (if the book was written now, she'd also include Keto, I think). She manages to poke fun at the groups as well as embrace them as allies and co-belligerents in the restrictive eating trenches. The other thing I appreciated was the encouragement to advocate to yourself without being obnoxious (or realize you're coming across as obnoxious and at least be aware of it to diminish its impact) in various spheres of life—when it comes to something as vital as the food you put in your mouth, and the ubiquity of gluten, you've got to.
Peveteaux is serious about the disease/intolerance, but not about anything else. She makes fun of herself, her inclinations and suffering—helping her readers to do the same for their struggles. The book is a great mix of advice and laughs, guidance and goofiness.
It's read by the author, and she does a great job with it (as is so often the case). She comes across as the friendly guide to the life sentence that is a gluten-free life from someone walking the same path, so she knows where the potholes are as well as where the best views can be found.
Yeah, it's a bit dated—thankfully, there are more options in the market now than there were at publication (conversely, there's a lot more hidden gluten sources, too)—and once or twice it steps over the tasteful line (and does the cha-cha down it most of the time), which makes it hard for Dad to hand to his daughter (who probably hears worse multiple times before her first class starts, but is wise enough not to tell her Old Man). But, I am going to buy a copy of this and put it in her hand. I think she'll like the approach to the subject, the voice, and tips, but most of all just knowing that she's not alone in her suffering—but seeing that you can laugh at it, too. I know I did.
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