The language of Baklava

Abu-Jaber's memoir is like velvet with its descriptions; the way she writes is (not to be cliche) captivating. You feel yourself transported to different times, different locations, and different emotions. In my mind I can imagine the people she grew up with, the experiences she had, and the people she encountered.

A good book transports you to a different time and place.

The recipes in here sound delicious, like better versions of some of the heavy Egyptian fare I had while abroad.

I found myself easily caught up in the narrative voice and language of the author's Arab-American heritage. Using the actual recipes of ethnic foods to add meaning (and flavor) to family anecdotes works for the most part, but sometimes it felt like an unnecessary stylistic distraction.

If you're a foodie and like to read lists of spices and exotic preparation techniques, you'll enjoy this book.