The Etruscan Chef by Lorenzo Polegri & Kim Brookmire is not just another book about food or cooking, although it tells of both.
It’s a window into the past and present lives of Umbrians and their cuisine – a memoir of food and its genesis from their ancestors, the Etruscans. Lorenzo writes, “We used to be Etruscans. I don’t know if we still are, but we love to think so.”
Chef Polegri presents us with a book that is written by a boy who is now a man. After reading it from cover to cover, I feel as though I know him, and the people he introduced me to, just a little bit better. The smiling faces of the vendors I see at the outdoor market every week now have names. Absorbing Lorenzo’s words, I will try to remember that a farmer toiled in a nearby field to bring these delicious and real foods to my table. Grandparents, parents, children and friends: Through Lorenzo’s stories from his childhood, his teenage years, and now his adulthood, I see more clearly the strong and beautiful people of my adopted home, and for this I am grateful.
The Etruscan Chef is a pleasurable and emotional glimpse into the soul of a life in Umbria, Italy.
Lorenzo & Kim
Orvieto or Bust: 
Hi Toni, Now you are writing book reviews – I love it!! It’s fun following you on your blog; it feels like you are not that far away but of course, you are. Once we have made more final plans for our trip to Italy next summer, I’ll let you know. Keep up the good work!
Carol…I am not far away – only a click of a mouse. The world is a crazy place. Just like I know you had a run-in with a robot yesterday at the farmers market. We are connected and the next time we meet for coffee at Cibo, we won’t have much to tell because we will know what each other has been up to….:). Hugs and kisses. And to Michael too. t
A few years ago, I spent a wonderful summer holiday in Orvieto. The food was amazing. I think I recognize Lorenzo…I wonder if I ate at his restaurant.
Hi Kim, well I don’t know if you did, but it is entirely possible. Orvieto, as you well know, is a place, like “Cheers”, where everyone knows your name. Thanks so much for stopping by and remembering fondly your time here. Hugs. t