COVER STORY

The Hundred-Foot Journey by Richard C. Morais

For When: You're all over the map

by Gary M. Kramer

Published: Jun 16, 2010


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This lighthearted novel by Philadelphia-based author Richard Morais is simply a delectable treat. We're introduced to Hassan Haji, born in Mumbai, whose first sensation at birth is smell. When he observes that his family's chicken dish tastes dry, he sets himself on an irrefutable course with destiny to become a great chef.

However, Hassan's journey take a curious turn when his father moves the family to southeastern France. Young Hassan quickly becomes a rival — then pupil — of renowned two-star Michelin chef Madame Mallory, who (to her own horror) acknowledges the teenager as a culinary artist. As he learns French haute cuisine, Hassan finds his place in the world, eventually moving to Paris to open his own restaurant.

Morais fills almost every page of The Hundred-Foot Journey with foodery, from savory trips to Harrod's and French markets to kitchen scenes featuring descriptions of preparations for ptarmigan and Charolais. There is also plenty of vivid imagery in the text — a character's face resembles "an onion bahji"; the sun looks like dripping mango sorbet.

While The Hundred-Foot Journey gets a bit episodic at times — Hassan has a brief affair with a sous chef, and has both tax and staff troubles — Morais still makes his points elegantly. He and his characters emphasize the importance of family, selflessness and preparing simple dishes — true food for thought.

Scribner, 256 pp., $23, July 6

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