A Life Spent Reading

If the title doesn’t get you, the book itself probably will. Elle Newmark has concocted a pleasant tale of late 15th century Venice, centered on a chef, his apprentice, his kitchen, and a secret, centuries-long movement to collect and preserve knowledge. Along the way she gets to poke some gentle fun, most of it aimed at the Christian faith. (“If [Jesus] knew he could [resurrect himself], what value would his death have?” Yes, indeed.) Catholics uncomfortable with difficult questions need not bother with this book.

But the main story is that of the apprentice, who starts as a homeless beggar on the streets of Venice and eventually finds himself, and manhood, among the pots and pans of the Doge’s kitchen. It’s an unlikely scenario, but in Newmark’s hands works smoothly enough. This isn’t a book that is likely to stay with you for years and years (albeit some of the dishes discussed seem good enough that you can smell them on the page), but the storytelling is good and will hold you.

The other thing really worth mentioning is the superlative job that Simon and Schuster did with the book itself. The dust cover is textured, and feels like you’re holding the skin of an orange. The endpapers are sumptuous, lush images that are works of art unto themselves… the best I can recall seeing for at least three decades. Everything, right down to the serif font, has been calculated to enhance the experience of reading, and if you are considering buying the book, I would recommend getting it in hardback simply for the pleasure of holding it in your hands. It is also flawlessly edited. Someone took a lot of time and care with this one, and madre mia does it show.