Five books in honour of world class chef and TV host, the late Anthony Bourdain

I first metTV Chef,TVTravel Host, Author and culinary enfant terrible, Anthony Bourdain many years ago when I picked up his book off the shelf in a London bookshop. By now he was already a full blown celebrity chef occasioned by the book I had just picked up, Kitchen Confidential. Hilarious and full of dark humor, I read night and day about the culinary underbelly, the food industry, cooking, the suppliers, the story of his entrance into the trade and tales of failed cooking gigs, other chefs and the various layers of the food and cooking underworld. As a Foodie and Gastronome with my eyes set on a cooking book going forward, I was totally smitten by the many exciting facets of Anthony Bourdain’s colorful life without the drug stories of course. News of his suicide three weeks ago left me numb and very sad. From his writings and CNN Travel food program, Parts Unknown in which he travelled the world and brought us culinary sights and tastes that were deeply felt culturally across the world, I had become familiar with his style, his audacity and the glorious moments of tasting, eating and community he brings through his Travel food show. As a care giver myself with a bit of Educational psychology and an informal counselling portfolio, I have met many people struggling with what their purpose in life is, who are overwhelmed with the troubles of the world. I am saddened by Anthony Bourdain’s suicide as it is not the answer and leaves everyone devastated. You are loved, you are needed, don’t go that route. All those with people struggling with anxieties around them should provide support. It always helps when they know they are truly loved. In honor of this man who has travelled to most parts of the world, interviewed amazing people including former U.S President Barrack Obama and brought us the unity that can only be found through food and given us joy and happiness from eating, I bring you five books to savor in celebration of one of the world’s most well-known chefs.