EDNA LEWIS: AT THE TABLE WITH AN AMERICAN ORIGINAL

Edna Lewis (1916-2006) is an almost mythical food figure and had always seemed somewhat intangible to me. Described as elegant by everyone who knew her, she was born and raised in Freetown, Va., in a self-sustaining farming community of emancipated slaves — this is the food and the life that is reflected in her most acclaimed books. This book of essays helps to anchor her contributions to American, and more specifically regional southern, foodways. The book, compiled and edited by Sara B. Franklin, provides stories and insights from people who knew her and people who have been captivated by her writing. ($36.71; amazon.ca)