The Adventurous Chef: Alexis Soyer

by Ann Arnold

In 1837, when Alexis Soyer was just twenty-five years old, he became head chef at the exclusive Reform Club in London on the condition that he be allowed to participate in the design of the kitchen. The result was a showplace filled with Soyer's clever inventions, such as the drainer and the multi-egg poacher, and it became the most talked about kitchen in all of Europe. Soyer quickly established himself as a star, but for all his flamboyance he was practical and large-hearted, cooking for the starving populace as well as the aristocracy, opening soup kitchens during the Irish potato famine, and teaching the army how to feed itself in the Crimean War.

Filled with biographical detail and lively illustrations, The Adventurous Chef tells the story of a remarkable man who was determined to revolutionize the culinary world and who remains one of the greatest cooks of the nineteenth century.

Genres: Biography, Picture Books, History, France, Food Writing, Childrens, Ireland

40 pages, Hardcover

First published September 19, 2002

About the author

There is more than one author with this name

Illustrator
Ann Arnold is a still life painter who lives around the corner from Chez Panisse

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why have I never heard of Alexis Soyer, who created "the most talked about and visited kitchen" in early 19th century Europe? His innovations made cooking cleaner and more efficient, and he put his inventions to good use to help feed the poor, especially during the Irish potato famine, and to serve soldiers fighting in the Crimean War (he worked with Florence Nightingale there). Ann Arnold's illustrations are whimsical and lighthearted, making this a fun read. Now I need to go learn more about this famous cook.

[Elizabeth Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have attended the same small church with Ann Arnold for several years. She is a truly kind person who aims to bring beauty to each place she goes, such as bringing fresh flowers from her garden each week for the church pulpit. I didn't realize until she gave me this book and another, that she was a children's writer and illustrator! This book is delightful both for older children and adults. The illustrations reminded me of Ann's own kitchen. It is an inspiring story about how one person with imagination and goodwill can leave a legacy.

[Kary · Rating 2 out of 5]

I do not see this engaging any young readers. Although it's in a picture book format, it is lengthy, dry, and just plain blah. It has been in our collection for 15 years, and has never circulated, so I think it will be weeded. Would be better suited for a high school collection.

[Pam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Despite the fact that this book started with a map, a wonderful thing, and that it is a much needed picture book biography on a unique relatively unknown chef, I didn't like this book at all. The story line was too long, too wordy and just plain boring. Straight forward sentences could have communicated more information in less space. The illustrations did not help the situation as they seem old-fashioned and fail to excite me so I am sure they would be even more boring for the children to whom this book is aimed. The author and publisher even failed to include a simple one or two page summary of the man and his life in the back or further sources of information. Even the map I was so excited about was difficult to follow with handwritten names crammed into tiny little countries.

[Audrey Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book about a man who took his life's passion of cooking to help others. Perfect for students to read and be inspired to chase their dreams. Alexis had grand ideas of inventions to make culinary arts more productive. Little did he know, later in his life many would be produced to help the British army and the poor.

[Rogue Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

You'd thing this book would be for children when you see the marvelous illustrations and handwritten text, but it's not. Detailed and descriptive, Arnold's work reveals the many accomplishments and culinary genius of Alexis Soyer who tirelessly re-engineered the kitchen and developed techniques to safely feed large groups with good food. Remarkable.

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very interesting! I knew nothing of this man before picking up this bio. He could make a fascinating subject for a child's biography project.

[Cassie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about a French chef & his story about how he became one. Vivid & hilarious illustrations and good, useful facts about cooking for the future chef!

[Miriam · Rating 2 out of 5]

the author had a fabulous subject and blew it. the story has too little info of appeal to kids -- and there is a lot to be said for this famous chef that youngsters would just love.