This was a short and sweet cooking/meditation inspired book. I started reading it because the book was available through Hoopla and I needed a food memoir for a 2017 reading challenge.

So, I have a few thoughts about the title and content:

- The book read like a series of blog entries. After finishing over half the book, I did some research and discovered that the author originally had a blog on the same subject.

- "Kitchen Mindfulness" may have worked just as well for a title or perhaps been more accurate. Much of the writing focuses on being in the moment while cooking, such as enjoying the simple process of chopping carrots (which is used as an example multiple times) or being aware of the smell of freshly snipped basil. I personally am mindful while chopping any veggies, just to avoid unwanted finger cuts and pain!

- There are some recipes included but that is not the focus of the book. My personal taste in food did not mesh well with some of the recipes though, as I am not a big basil or leek fan.

So, I'd recommend this book to those who love cooking but haven't read much about meditation or mindfulness. It was still a worthwhile read for me and I always learn something new or useful from every book I read. In retrospect, I probably would have enjoyed reading it more as a weekly blog though. ( )

Dana Velden makes a compelling case for time in the kitchen as a time for relaxation, meditation, a sense of purpose and accomplishment, and an opportunity for intimacy with friends and family. ( )