Description

In fragments, associative, open and often abrupt, white beans evoke memories, preserve the life of the dead, even though the parents have long since died, as has the great love and the body is trapped in a wheelchair. Soberly and mercilessly she describes her mother's illness, the disgusting uncle, the aunt's funeral, conversations at table or the neighbors' family, and humorously and dryly dissects her own life. Reflections on death and life run through the book like aphorisms – the topic of food: a framework for the memoirs.

Ulrike Gies' story is about dreams, experiences and memories - memories of the deceased and memories of recipes. She describes scenes from her childhood, but also stories from her everyday life today. Soberly she talks about her mother's illness and her aunt's funeral – even about death itself. In a humorous way, she portrays great-aunt Lisa's idiosyncrasies and the ailments of getting older. The connection with nut cake, lentil soup and Indonesian rice tables make the book one Cookbook of the Dead.

Reviews and press:

Weser courier:

The author takes us on a culinary journey - through her stomach into the past, but also into her everyday life, her dreams and experiences. In fragments, associative, open and often abrupt, white beans evoke memories, preserve the life of the dead, even though the parents have long since died, as has the great love and the body is trapped in a wheelchair. more