From Scratch Book Summary
A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home
TL;DR
A poignant memoir by Tembi Locke about love, loss, and healing in the Sicilian countryside, where she finds solace at her mother-in-law's table after her husband's death.
What is From Scratch about
From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home by Tembi Locke is a touching story of cross-cultural love and loss. The memoir recounts Tembi's life with her Sicilian husband, Saro, whose family initially disapproves of their marriage. They build a life together in Los Angeles, adopt a daughter, and eventually reconcile with Saro’s family. After Saro's death from cancer, Tembi spends summers in Sicily, finding healing and connection with Saro's family and community. The book explores themes of love, family, culture, and the healing power of food.
From Scratch 5 Key Takeaways
Meeting Saro
Tembi Locke met her husband Saro, a professional chef, on a street in Florence. Their immediate connection led to a deep and transformative love.
Estrangement from Saro’s Family
Saro's traditional Sicilian family disapproved of his marriage to a Black American woman, causing a period of estrangement.
Adoption of Daughter
Tembi and Saro adopted a baby girl, Zoela, at birth, adding joy and fulfillment to their lives.
Saro’s Battle with Cancer
Saro was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer, which ultimately took his life, leaving Tembi to navigate her grief and rebuild her life.
Reconciliation and Healing in Sicily
After Saro's death, Tembi spent three summers in Sicily, where she found solace and healing through the support of Saro's family, the community, and the local cuisine.
From Scratch Videos
Tembi Locke shares the story behind her memoir "From Scratch"
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From Scratch Best Reviews
- Kirkus Reviews describes the book as 'a captivating story of love lost and found,' highlighting the lush Sicilian setting and the healing power of food and family.
- Publishers Weekly praises the memoir for its raw and heartfelt narrative, noting its uplifting impact on readers who have experienced loss.
Top From Scratch Quotes
- In Sicily, it is said that every story begins with a marriage or a death—in my case, it is both.
- Life is delicious.
- The healing gifts of simple fresh food, the embrace of a close-knit community, and timeless traditions and wisdom light a path forward.
Who should read From Scratch?
Anyone who appreciates heartfelt memoirs, cross-cultural love stories, and narratives about overcoming loss and finding healing will find 'From Scratch' deeply moving and inspirational.
From Scratch FAQs
Is From Scratch book a true story?
Yes, 'From Scratch' is a memoir by Tembi Locke that recounts her real-life experiences of love, loss, and healing.
What is the summary of the book From Scratch?
'From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home' is about Tembi Locke's journey of love, grief, and healing, set against the Sicilian countryside. It explores how she found solace in food, family, and community after her husband's death.
How close is From Scratch to the book?
The Netflix series 'From Scratch' is inspired by Tembi Locke's memoir but is not a carbon copy. Approximately 20% of it is based on hardcore facts from her life.