Author(s): Annie Smithers

Biography & Memoir

In this generous account of life on the land and in the kitchen, trailblazing cook Annie Smithers chronicles her quest for a more sustainable existence, in harmony with the environment and the self. Part meditation, part memoir, the book offers practical advice and wisdom gleaned from a life dedicated to seasonal food and living lightly on the ground beneath her feet.

Geraldine's review:

Whether you enjoy listening to Annie Smithers cook with Blueprint For Living's Jonathan Green on Radio National every Saturday morning, use her cookbook, or have had the pleasure of eating at her restaurant, you will find reading this book an absolute delight. Annie writes so beautifully about setting up her property in Lyonville with her partner in country Victoria, creating her magnificent productive garden as well as a decorative one, how to use the several outbuildings in the most practical way, and includes simple but utterly delicious recipes from both her garden and restaurant. She also talks about establishing her restaurant, and running it exactly on her own terms. Matthew Evans has referred to her as "the anti-celebrity chef" and you can certainly see why!

There are also her thoughts on leading a life which is both gentler and kinder on both the landscape she inhabits and the animals she keeps, and how we could all learn to live more sustainably. No pressure, no preaching - just articulate ideas, considerately expressed.

I highly recommend it.