Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts

Praise

“Crystal Wilkinson reminds us all that we cannot embrace our precious time in the kitchen without a song our grandmothers sang or a spice our great-grandmothers added. We put the same apron on if we are lucky enough to still have it, wash our hands, say a little prayer, and cook for and with generations.”—Nikki Giovanni, poet

“Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts is a beautiful cookbook, and a longed-for corrective to the history of Appalachia, but far more than that, it is a testimony to the power of artistry and heart of those who make love manifest in the garden and on the table.”—Ronni Lundy, James Beard Award-winning author of Victuals

“It is now common in my part of the world to laud Crystal Wilkinson as one of the greatest poets on earth. With Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts, Wilkinson cements herself as one of the most dynamic book makers in our generation and a literary giant. Wilkinson unfolds and stirs a number of Appalachias that powered the nation, yet we seldom accept. Utter genius tastes like this.”—Kiese Laymon, author of the Carnegie Medal-winning Heavy: An American Memoir

“Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts celebrates the presence and rich legacy of Black Appalachians. Through meticulous research and personal anecdotes, Wilkinson unearths the captivating stories of her culinary matriarchs, generously sharing their kitchen wisdom and cherished recipes, as well as her own.”—Bryant Terry, James Beard award-winning author of Black Food and Vegetable Kingdom

“Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts is an ode to food, yes, but it’s also a brilliant ode to ancestors, to history, to survival. Wilkinson has made a deeply necessary book about how we cook, how we eat, and most importantly, how we love. With stories that make you ache and recipes that make you heal, this book is an essential new addition to any food lover’s collection.  I didn’t just read this book, I devoured it.”—Ada Limón, 24th Poet Laureate of the United States

“Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts is a treasure. A history, an homage, and a beautiful testament to Affrilachian people, foodways, traditions, and culture. Crystal Wilkinson is a writer of stunning prose and deep spirit who teaches us that cooking is essential to caring.”—Imani Perry, National Book Award winning author of South to America

“This is a much-needed, extraordinary, multi-generational look at the African American influence on Appalachian foodways. I’m blown away.”—Sean Brock, author of New York Times bestsellers Heritage and South, and chef of Audrey and June in Nashville