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Appetite for Life

The Biography of Julia Child

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Appetite for Life

By: Noel Riley Fitch
Narrated by: Wanda McCaddon
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About this listen

 Julia Child became a household name when she entered the lives of millions of Americans through our hearts and kitchens. Yet few know the richly varied private life that lies behind this icon whose statuesque height and warmly enthused warble have become synonymous with the art of cooking. In this biography, Fitch takes us through her life from her exuberant youth as a high-spirited California girl to her years at Smith College, where Julia was at the center of every prank and party, to her volunteer work with the OSS and to her meeting Paul Child, the man who introduced her to the glories of art, fine French cuisine, and love. A biography of a woman modern before her time, this is the story of a truly American life.©1997 by Noë (P)1997 by Blackstone Audiobooks Entertainment & Celebrities Women Heartfelt
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A fascinating well researched book which elaborates changing social as well as gastronomic trends in the last century. Don’t be put off by the length of the book it is easy reading/listening and only reflects the subjects long and productive life.

Very enjoyable extensive account

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I was drawn to this book by my enjoyment of Nora Ephron's wonderful 2009 film, "Julie and Julia", which starred Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, and Stanley Tucci (about whom I am passionate - but that is another story). Paul Child will always be Stanley Tucci as far as I am concerned.
The story is fascinating. The frequent and long lists of names, recipes and menus are not.
English-born Wanda McCaddon was a terrible voice for this story. What possessed the producers to choose her? It has to be said that her diction is good, but why an English voice for a biography of an American? Her pronunciation of English "tomatoes" as "tomaytoes" caused me to laugh out loud.
The narration ends with Julia's words: "You keep right on until you are through", but McCaddon didn't seem to realise it was the end of the book, and neither did I until the Audible voice intoned "We hope you enjoyed blah, blah, blah . . ."
Well, Audible, not really. Sad, when it could have been so much better.

Such a shame - it could have been great.

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