M.F.K. Fisher: A Life in Letters : Correspondence 1929-1991

by M.F.K. Fisher, Patrick Moran, Marsha Moran (Editor)

Book by Fisher, M. F. K.

Genres: Food Writing, Food, Nonfiction

500 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

Mary Frances Kennedy Fisher was a prolific and well-respected writer, writing more than 20 books during her lifetime and also publishing two volumes of journals and correspondence shortly before her death in 1992. Her first book, Serve it Forth, was published in 1937. Her books deal primarily with food, considering it from many aspects: preparation, natural history, culture, and philosophy. Fisher believed that eating well was just one of the "arts of life" and explored the art of living as a secondary theme in her writing. Her style and pacing are noted elements of her short stories and essays.

Reviews

[Melanie Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A superb collection which chronicles a writer's personal growth and turbulent romantic as well as familial relationships and travels, from Europe back to the US and beyond. Her warmth as well as her persistent struggles shine. Moving and a great read for the end of a long day-- I read a handful of letters at a time, then take a break.

[Lynne-marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy reading letters. Especially literary letters. That being said, I would be repeating myself from elsewhere if I hymned Fisher's writing style and humanity. These letters make one think and examine one's own life.

[Anie]

Officially abandoned this day of 6 July, 2014, quite a long time after I last read anything in this volume. I just couldn't be arsed to finish it---Fisher was definitely not a happy woman, and I was not enjoying reading upset letters right before going to bed.

[Liz S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish I could give this more than five stars.

[Barbara Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maddening, for what is left unsaid.