M.F.K. Fisher: A Life in Letters

by Norah K. Barr (Compiler), M.F.K. Fisher, Marsha Moran

In these pages, M.F.K. Fisher’s letters are made public for the first time. Selected and compiled by her younger sister, her longtime secretary, and a close family friend, these personal pieces reveal some of Fisher’s most private moments over six decades, giving ample display to her sharp wit and affectionate humor, her ongoing reflections on loss and the power to change.

Genres: Food Writing, Food, Nonfiction, Biography

520 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Melanie Faith]

A superb collection which chronicles a writer's personal growth and turbulent romantic as well as familial relationships and travels, from Europe back to the US and beyond. Her warmth as well as her persistent struggles shine. Moving and a great read for the end of a long day-- I read a handful of letters at a time, then take a break.

[Lynne-marie]

I enjoy reading letters. Especially literary letters. That being said, I would be repeating myself from elsewhere if I hymned Fisher's writing style and humanity. These letters make one think and examine one's own life.

[Anie]

Officially abandoned this day of 6 July, 2014, quite a long time after I last read anything in this volume. I just couldn't be arsed to finish it---Fisher was definitely not a happy woman, and I was not enjoying reading upset letters right before going to bed.

[Liz S.]

I wish I could give this more than five stars.

[Barbara Rice]

Maddening, for what is left unsaid.