Only Maya Angelou could pen a cookbook that has the power to make me alternate between fits of laughter and then sudden bouts of sobbing. I know for a fact that I won't ever attempt to cook things like tripe. However, I absolutely adored reading her stories and envisioning the dishes that took center stage in these remarkable life experiences. This cookbook is truly a beautiful creation, so characteristically wonderful that it makes you feel as if she is right there in front of you, sharing these precious recollections and recipes exclusively with you. It's not just a cookbook; it's a literary and culinary journey that takes you into the heart and soul of Maya Angelou. Each page is filled with her unique charm and wisdom, making it a must-read for anyone who loves great storytelling and delicious food.

I really enjoyed listening to this book.

Maya Angelou is truly an amazing storyteller. Her words have the power to transport you to different places and make you feel as if you are right there with her.

In this particular book, she delves into the wonderful world of food, friends, and eating. She shares her experiences and memories, painting a vivid picture in the reader's mind.

You can almost taste the delicious dishes she describes and feel the warmth of the friendships she has cultivated.

Listening to her speak about these things is not only entertaining but also inspiring. It makes you appreciate the simple pleasures in life and the importance of good company and great food.

Maya Angelou's unique perspective and engaging writing style make this book a must-read for anyone who loves a good story and a celebration of life's joys.

The draw of this book was, of course, the narration by Maya Angelou herself. Her voice added a unique charm and authenticity to the stories. The stories included are short and interesting, revolving around the theme of food. They paint vivid pictures of different culinary experiences and the emotions associated with them.

Unfortunately, the recipes themselves aren't included in the audio version. This is a real pity as I can't help but imagine that amazing voice guiding me step by step in the kitchen, teaching me how to prepare those delicious and mouthwatering dishes. It feels like a missed opportunity.

However, I also think that those who read the book themselves instead of listening might miss out on a great treat. The audio version brings the stories to life in a way that reading alone can't. So perhaps the only solution is to buy two versions? That way, you can enjoy the narration while also having access to the recipes.

I'm only giving it 3 stars because it is an audio book that is missing half the content. It's like a cookbook without recipes. But despite this flaw, the narration by Maya Angelou is still a wonderful experience that makes the book worth checking out.

Narrated by Maya Angelou.

A Life Well Lived

I have always had a profound love for Maya Angelou's poetry. Her words have the power to touch the deepest recesses of the human soul. This remarkable book not only features some truly interesting sounding recipes but also interweaves them with captivating stories from her life. It is a unique blend that offers a multi-faceted exploration of her world. The recipes seem to be a reflection of her diverse experiences and cultural background. I am filled with anticipation as I hope to try some of these recipes. It will be like embarking on a culinary adventure that is also intertwined with the rich tapestry of her life. I can't wait to see how these recipes turn out and what new flavors and memories they will bring.

Everything a cook book should be is precisely what this one offers. It is not just a collection of recipes but a comprehensive guide that takes you on a culinary journey. The recipes are well-written, easy to follow, and accompanied by clear instructions and beautiful illustrations.

The Caramel Cake, in particular, is profound. Its rich and decadent flavor is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. The combination of the moist cake layers and the smooth caramel frosting is simply irresistible. Making this cake is a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this cook book has something for everyone. It provides inspiration, knowledge, and the confidence to create delicious meals and desserts in your own kitchen. So, grab a copy and start cooking!

I have a deep affection for Maya Angelou. Her works have always held a special place in my heart. This particular piece was taken from her autobiography, which offers a profound and intimate look into her life.

Maya Angelou's writing is truly captivating. It has the power to transport readers into her world, allowing them to experience her joys, sorrows, and struggles. Through her words, she shares her unique perspective on life, love, and the human condition.

Her autobiography is not just a story of her own life, but also a reflection of the times and the society in which she lived. It is a testament to her strength, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity. Reading her words, one cannot help but be inspired and moved.

Maya Angelou's contributions to literature are immeasurable. Her work will continue to be read and cherished for generations to come. She will always be remembered as one of the greatest writers of our time.

Love the combination of memoir and recipes! It's truly a unique and engaging concept.

Reading a memoir that is intertwined with delicious recipes allows for a multi-sensory experience. You not only get to delve into the author's personal stories and emotions but also have the opportunity to bring those memories to life in your own kitchen.

I'm excited to try a few of the recipes. It'll be interesting to see how the flavors and techniques described in the memoir translate into actual dishes.

Maybe I'll discover a new favorite recipe or gain a deeper understanding of the author's life through the food they prepared.

This combination of memoir and recipes is a wonderful way to connect with the author on a more personal level and create lasting memories of my own.

I can't wait to embark on this culinary adventure and see where it takes me.

Maya Angelou is seen reading her own book.

Her voice is like a gentle breeze that caresses the ears and transports the listener into the world of her words.

I cannot recommend highly enough getting the audio version of this book.

It is truly a remarkable experience to hear her bring her own writing to life.

I have made it my mission to obtain as many of her books as possible, with her reading her own work.

The way she describes food is simply delicious to the ear and mouthwatering as well.

It makes you feel as if you can taste the flavors and textures she writes about.

Her words have the power to evoke emotions and create vivid images in the mind.

Listening to her read is like going on a journey through her life and experiences.

It is a journey that I am eager to take again and again.

Maya Angelou's audio books are a treasure trove of wisdom, inspiration, and beauty.

They are a must-have for any lover of literature and great storytelling.

Listened to the audiobook and it was very entertaining!

I recently had the pleasure of listening to an audiobook, and I must say it was an extremely enjoyable experience. The narrator's voice was engaging and brought the story to life in a vivid way. As I listened, I was able to immerse myself in the plot and characters, almost as if I was watching a movie in my mind. The convenience of being able to listen while doing other things, such as driving or exercising, made it even more appealing. It allowed me to make the most of my time and still have access to great literature. Overall, I would highly recommend audiobooks to anyone looking for a fun and convenient way to enjoy a good story.

Whether you're a book lover or just looking for something new to try, give audiobooks a chance and see how entertaining they can be.

A great audio book to enjoy while in your kitchen cooking.

It explores the fascinating themes of how food has the power to connect us across different cultures, vast oceans, and diverse economies. It shows how food can bring about a greater understanding among people from various backgrounds.

The audio book also emphasizes the appreciation of flavors that require time and patience, much like in relationships. Just as we need to invest time and effort in building and maintaining relationships, we also need to do the same when it comes to savoring the rich and complex flavors of different cuisines.

Moreover, it highlights the art of conversation and listening when invited to a table. Sharing a meal with others provides an opportunity for meaningful conversations and for truly listening to what others have to say.

So, while you're busy cooking in the kitchen, let this audio book be your companion and enhance your culinary experience. Bon Appetit!

What a delight this was!

It was not only a break from the heavier things in life but also because she truly had a remarkable gift. Her gift was the ability to make the stories of her life feel so familiar and welcoming.

In her resonant and measured voice, she masterfully weaves together the tales of those special moments when food played an extraordinarily powerful role in her experience.

Listening to her read was like embarking on a spiritual journey, similar to going to church in the very best of ways.

She had a deep and visceral understanding of what it means to keep the body and soul together.

Food, in her stories, was not just sustenance but a source of comfort, a connection to memories, and a means of bringing people together.

Her words painted vivid pictures in the listener's mind, allowing them to almost taste the flavors and feel the emotions associated with each food-related moment.

It was a truly enchanting experience, one that left the listener with a sense of warmth and a newfound appreciation for the simple pleasures in life.

I purchased this book due to the fact that I witnessed an interview with Maya Angelou on Oprah.

She recounted the tale of her 'Hurt-me-Banana-Pudding' and shared how she penned a cookbook, where each recipe was accompanied by a story.

This is an atypical purchase for me, as I am unable to consume any of the items in the book owing to severe food allergies and the like.

Nevertheless, I cherish this book more than anything.

Maya Angelou, as she appeared on TV, impressed me as an extremely feisty woman with an abundance of humor, and that is precisely what the book is like.

Even when a story is sorrowful, she narrates it as if that's just the way it's meant to be.

And that there's a touch of humor even within the sadness.

Just like life.

It's a remarkable book that offers not only delicious recipes but also captivating stories that add depth and charm to the culinary experience.

It's a true gem that I will treasure for a long time.