Arise Sir Jamie Oliver: The Biography

by Stafford Hildred, Tim Ewbank

Jamie originally harbored dreams of pop stardom with his band Scarlet Division, but by the age of 16 decided to become a chef. After college he earned his stripes in France and then as a pastry chef before starting at the River Café, where he really learned his trade. It was during a television documentary about the River Café that Jamie first caught the attention of the program's editors. Thanks to his on-screen charisma he was featured heavily in the finished documentary and the offers came flooding in. So The Naked Chef was born. The program was a huge success, with an intimate and fresh approach to the television chef. Jamie's informal and playful demeanor, as well as his obvious passion and enthusiasm for food drew in a younger audience and revolutionized the traditional cooking cooking became cool! The subsequent television series and books gave Jamie fame and fortune the world over, but he always wanted to do something positive with his success. Jamie established the Fifteen charity restaurant, where he trained 15 disadvantaged young people to work in the kitchen. The restaurant and accompanying television series proved that there is more to Jamie than his bubbly persona lets on. As if to complete his transition from cheeky chap to responsible adult, Jamie tackled his toughest challenge yet when he began a campaign to ban unhealthy food in schools and get kids eating fresh, nutritious meals. His boundless enthusiasm and passion for his cause brought him into conflict with parents, teachers, and even politicians, but his desire to bring about radical change eventually saw him meet with Tony Blair and succeed in getting hundreds of millions in extra funding for school meals.

Genres: Biography

288 pages, Hardcover

First published April 28, 2007

Reviews

[Gwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like Jamie Oliver. It was interesting to learn about his childhood, family life, and what motivates him. I felt the book tried to provide smooth transitions from one-interview to another but fell flat like a elementary school book report. The writing was choppy at times with bits of stories/fact put here and there.

[Andrea]

A good introduction to Jamie Oliver's background and life. It does have a lot of references to British bands and cooks, though, so it was tricky to follow all the way through. I would have also liked to read more about his healthy food in schools program.

[Lara Sánchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

he's the reason why I choose this path..and I am proud of myself and him.

[seffron holroyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this. I have always enjoyed watching Jamie oliver. He has such a down to earth, sunny personality .
It was lovely to read about his life.
He deserves all the great things he has achieved.