Dear Francesca

Written by leading cookery author Mary Contini, this delightful narrative is in the bestselling tradition of Anthony Bourdain and Annie Hawes. It tells the tale of the Di Ciacca family, tracing their journey from the barren Abruzzi mountains to the chilly streets of post-war Edinburgh. Addressing her daughter Francesca as she embarks on independent life, this is a compelling, often moving, family history in which Contini describes her ancestors' loves and lives in their adopted homeland where traditions were kept alive around the dinner table. With characters as colourful as in any novel, this is a book that will appeal to anyone who loves Italian food and wishes to share in a sense of family. It adds up to one of the most original books for food lovers in recent years, blending great narrative with heartwarming recipes and recollections.

part cookery, part storytelling - and wholly beguiling...don't miss it: there won't be a better cookbook published this decade, a charming story...she unravels the family history like a precious thread...Contini's writing has a naturalness and honesty about it that brings a lump to the throat on occasion. It is full of warmth, love and respect for traditional Italian attitudes to food as the cornerstone of a nurturing family life. A lovely unmissable book., a really heartwarming book of recollections and recipes, recounted with love and gusto, a remarkable book...a pleasure to read as well as to cook from, From the barren mountains of Southern Italy to the chilly streets of Edinburgh, this is a joy - both in and out of the kitchen

Based in Edinburgh, Mary Contini is a partner in the famous Italian delicatessen Valvona and Crolla. She also writes a column for The Scotsman and has presented Scotland's Larder on television.