Title: An Embarrassment of Mangoes: A Caribbean Interlude
Author: Ann Vanderhoof
First published January 1, 2003
320 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780767914277 (ISBN10: 0767914279)
Rating: 3.94
Overview
Ann Vanderhoof’s An Embarrassment of Mangoes is a riveting memoir about two Canadians who take a bold step towards the life they’ve always dreamed of. Tired of living a fast-paced, stressful life, Ann and her husband, Steve, quit their jobs, rented out their house, and set sail on a 42-foot sailboat named “recipe” for a two-year voyage of culinary and cultural discovery.
This book chronicles their journey through 16 countries and 47 individual islands, where they explore secluded beaches and shop local markets. Along the way, the author records the delicious dishes they encounter – from cracked conch in the Bahamas to curried lobster in Grenada, from Dominican papaya salsa to classic West Indian rum punch – and incorporates these recipes into the text so that readers can join in on the adventure.
Discover the secrets of life in the Caribbean through this inspiring and mouth-watering memoir.
Editoral Review
An Embarrassment of Mangoes: A Caribbean Interlude by Ann Vanderhoof is a delightful memoir that takes the reader on a journey through the Caribbean islands. The book, first published in 2003, offers a unique perspective on travel writing, blending together the author’s experiences with recipes, local traditions, and history.
Vanderhoof is an accomplished food and travel writer, and this book exemplifies her talents in both areas.
The memoir follows the author and her husband as they embark on a two-year sailing adventure. They leave their busy lives in Toronto, Canada, and set sail for the Caribbean, seeking a slower, more relaxed way of life.
The book is divided into chapters, each focusing on a different island, and explores the unique culture, cuisine, and people of each location.
One of the strengths of this book is its vivid descriptions of the Caribbean islands. Vanderhoof paints a rich picture of the lush landscapes, the vibrant colors, and the unforgettable smells and tastes of the local cuisine.
The book is also filled with mouth-watering recipes, which are interspersed throughout the chapters. Readers will find themselves longing for a taste of the exotic dishes, such as jerk chicken or conch fritters.
Another strength of the book is the author’s character development. Vanderhoof and her husband are the main characters, and readers get a sense of their personalities, motivations, and struggles.
The author is honest about the challenges they face, including rough seas, language barriers, and cultural differences. The couple’s relationship is also explored, adding a layer of depth to the memoir.
While the book is primarily a travel memoir, it also touches on important themes such as sustainability, conservation, and cultural preservation. Vanderhoof is respectful of the local customs and traditions, and she shares her experiences in a way that highlights the importance of preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the islands.
Overall, An Embarrassment of Mangoes is a well-written, engaging, and insightful memoir. Its strengths lie in the author’s ability to transport the reader to the Caribbean islands through her descriptions and recipes, and in her candid portrayal of her own experiences.
While the book may not appeal to everyone, it is an excellent choice for those interested in travel writing, food writing, or Caribbean culture.
One potential weakness of the book is its pacing. At times, the narrative can feel slow or meandering, which may not appeal to readers looking for a fast-paced adventure.
Additionally, some readers may find the inclusion of recipes and history distracting or unnecessary.
Despite these minor flaws, An Embarrassment of Mangoes is a highly recommended read. It is a perfect escape for those looking to travel vicariously through the pages of a book.
The book is rated 4 out of 5, based on its engaging writing, vivid descriptions, and insightful commentary on Caribbean culture and conservation.
