The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

Dear Readers, 

An interesting title for an interesting book. Don't get me wrong, I loved it! It was just interesting. Not really what I expected. A friend recommended it (although I can't remember which friend) because it is about food and it is widely known that I am a food lover. And although I know you aren't suppose to judge a book by its cover I could not help looking at the cake on the cover and wanting to dive right in. It did not leave me hungry or disappointed! 

It starts out with Rose, the main character, as a young girl of 8. She was getting home from school and her mother decided to make a delicious lemon cake. She watched as her mother mixed together the eggs, butter, flour, and additional ingredients. She waited with anticipation as the lemony smelled filled the kitchen while the cake baked. Once out of the oven she couldn't wait, so she stole a chunk from the corner and smothered it with creamy chocolate frosting. As she hurriedly ate the bit of cake Rose tasted something more then just lemon and chocolate. She tasted sadness. From that day on she was able to taste the emotion of the cook who made her food. 

The rest of the novel follows Rose through the years. Most of the story happens in her peak years where remembers being especially afraid to eat food and taste peoples emotions. Those years were full of vending machine snacks and heavily processed food. She demonstrated courage when faced with cakes, cookies, and pies that I could never in a million years have. 

I really don't want to say to much more about the book because I really want you to read it and discover everything in the manner I did. All I can say is read it. It is amazing. It turns out a little unexpected, but you really get to understand why some people make the choices they do. Everyone has difficult choices and you need to learn not the judge people who have to make choices. What is good for them is not always good for you, and as Rose starts to realize this you are taken on an exciting and wonderful adventure filled with emotions cleverly portrayed as flavors. Then end of the book will leave you with a sweet taste in your mouth and a full stomach. So read it!!!! 

Lindsey 

P.S. There are amazing chapters in which Ms. Aimee very accurately portrays the passion I have for food. If you like eating at all this book is wonderful!!