Diana Abu-Jaber Book Discussion

Diana Abu-Jaber discusses her new book, Life Without a Recipe: A Memoir of Food and Family.

Diana Abu-Jaber’s heartwarming memoir follows her earlier remembrances in The Language of Baklava.

Self determination can be tricky for girls—especially those caught between cultures. Bullied with loving “advice” from a tough, independent sugar-fiend of a German grandmother (Grace) and a flamboyant, spice-obsessed Arab father (Bud), Diana Abu-Jaber spent years learning to ignore their contradictory prescriptions about food, work, marriage, and motherhood. Grace warned her away from children; Bud wanted her married above all, even if he had to provide the ring. But finding confidence in one’s own path sometimes takes a mistaken marriage or two. It certainly takes a sense of humor, and creativity, and courage. Finally, in her late forties and married happily, Diana knows what she wants, the craziest thing: a baby. Fearlessly independent like the Grace she’s named after, little Gracie will heal all the old battles with Bud, who becomes her greatest friend and ally, as she learns to eat from his fingers and—like her mom—to cook up a life without a recipe.

Life Without a Recipe comes out on April 18th.  More event info at www.sarasotabooks.com or 941-365-7900. Pre-order a copy (stop in the store or call 941-365-7900) to be among the first to read this delightful book.