Inspired by references to the "delicious books of Pampille" in Proust's Remembrance of Things Past, the veteran cookbook author Shirley King adapted this gastronomic gem of a book for the modern American kitchen. Marthe Daudet (1878-1960) was Pampille, and her book Les Bons Plats de France, originally published in 1919, is still regarded as a classic in France. Her intriguing mix of charming writing, insightful wit, and wonderful, authentic recipes makes this a travelogue as well as a useful cookbook. While remaining faithful to Pampille's language and work, King has updated the recipes when necessary to make them practical for modern cooks.
Shirley King (1931-2005) worked in the food business for more than twenty-five years as a chef, caterer, consultant, writer, and instructor. She was the author of the classic cookbook Fish, the Basics: An Illustrated Guide to Selecting and Cooking Fresh Seafood.