Saturday Review: Learning to Fry by Vittoria Beckbacon

Has there ever been a story so rich in succulence and so tasty? Devouring every word, I found myself caught up in the tale of a how a humble girl from the sticks rose to such prominence in the culinary world, crediting on her way the life saving properties of sunflower oil.

“Never before had I known such pleasure” states Vittoria in the opening chapter “the softness, the saltiness, the decadent juice flowing down my chin. I may have overdone the ketchup, actually. Why hadn’t anyone told me about bacon butties before? ”

Follow Vittoria’s account of her incredible journey, through thick and thin waistlines to the ultimate dream career - catering manager to the England Football Team. She describes how her tummy rumbles with excitement every time a major international tournament is announced.

“My tummy rumbles with excitement every time a major tournament is announced, as I know the lads will need every ounce of goose fat I can give them. Wayne Balloony, especially, can’t resist my dumplings.”

Vittoria narrates in detail the exotic places she has visited with the national team - Cardiff, Wembley, St.Albans, eternally grateful to the squad for sparing her the necessity of flying, of which she’s had a major phobia since suffering a broken nail in a crazed paper plane attack, at the tender age of just seventeen. The perpetrator was never apprehended, but was believed to be the six year old nephew of a neighbour, during a Christmas party.

Overcoming such adversities are a major part of this inspiring book, which will reach out and strike a dinner gong with all who read it.

Rating *****