-- There is more than one copy of the book on my bookshelf --

Synopsis (Credit: Back cover)

In the heart of Paris, in the posh building made famous in The Elegance of the Hedgehog, the greatest food critic in the world is dying. Revered by some and reviled by many, Pierre Arthens has been lording it over the world's most esteemed chefs for years, passing judgment on their creations, deciding their fates with a stroke of his pen, destroying and building reputations on a whim. But now, during his final hours, his mind has turned to simpler things. He is desperately searching for that singular flavor, that sublime something once sampled, never forgotten, the Flavor par excellence. Indeed, this flamboyant and self-absorbed man desires only one thing before he dies: one last taste.

(Bought second-hand at Help the Rural Child Charity Bookshop, Victoria Road, Mowbray.)

One is often advised not to buy groceries when hungry. When it comes to reading this book, the opposite may well apply: it is pure delight on an empty stomach! The author succeeds in describing the preparation, atmosphere and taste of a vast list of food types in irresistible fashion.

The main protagonist and the array of characters around him are portrayed convincingly, each of them unique.

In fact, I may have enjoyed the book more than the popular The Elegance of the Hedgehog.

To be left somewhere in the Quick Shop.

If you are new to BookCrossing and found this book, welcome! Enjoy the site, the book, and the BookCrossing community.

BookCrossing has not taken off in a big way in South Africa yet, but there are a number of dedicated BookCrossers across the country who are actively involved to grow the concept. A discussion group for BookCrossers in the wider Cape Town area, BCct, was set up to make it easier to arrange meetups or to spread local news. If you are a BookCrosser from this part of the world or planning a visit, please feel free to join. Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcct for more information.

Whether you decide to join or not, please make a journal entry — now, and again when you decide to release the book to continue its journey.