Last updated on October 6, 2020
Save me the Plums is Ruth Reichl’s memoir about working at Gourmet in New York. I first heard about the book on What Should I Read Next, but recently heard it endorsed by Noreen on The Waves as well. Garlic and Sapphires, the first book I read by Ruth, is a wonderful read so I expected to enjoy this book as well. I find Ruth’s descriptions vivid and rich, completely captivating.
Although I’m a picky eater, I will almost always order something new instead of a dish I’ve tried. I enjoy discovering the word through food. In fact, food is one of my favorite ways to explore new countries. One of my friends, C, and I have been on self-made food tours in Tokyo and London. I also love travelling with E because I know she cares about food and we’ll eat well, and she’ll make sure we eat vegetables. I’m not adventurous enough to travel with Ruth. No brains and blood pudding for me (anymore), but I would like to accompany her to her favorite sushi place.
“Fat spears of asparagus poked up their heads with such a curiously aggressive air I could not resist them.”
Although I was never a reader of Gourmet, I bet I’ve tried some of their recipes from epicurious.com. That website was my favorite for reliable recipes for many years. Learning how the magazine world works was entertaining. To me, Condé Nast is synonymous with luxury travel, and I didn’t realize what a large network it was (is?). I certainly never noticed it owned Epicurious.
When I read a memoir, I always wonder is the user has moved any parts around in the interest of the flow of the story. I’m a generous reader though, and I enjoy the situations that seem incredulous. I really want to know if the parts about Severine and her husband are exactly as related.
I highly recommend Save Me The Plums. If you love food, and vivid description, and can tolerate justifications as part of a story, read this book. Be inspired to try a new food or rediscover your range in the kitchen.
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