I really enjoyed this story about everyday people and the challenges they face. The story goes back and forth between the views of two different people, Sandra Kaye Darden a Mother of two and the wife of a Dr., who has lost her purpose in life and a young girl Cass, who along with her brother are trying to stay clear of being sent into foster care after having lost their mother. These two are brought together and a friendship forms when Sandra sees some kids diving in dumpsters looking for food, while she is in a run down neighborhood, trying to get her Uncles old house ready for sale. Sandra finally finds her purpose with the help of Cass, and you see a mix of wonderful characters come together to help each other and their neighborhood. There are many stories behind each of her characters, which give us a wonderful perspective into their lives, and why they are the way they are. I will definitely read more by this author. This book says it is # 2 in a series, but it is definitely an independent story. I think the area she writes about may be the only connecting link. Loved this gentle, but thought provoking book. Well-to-do SandraKaye Darden's oldest son, Jake, has left college to return to his native Guatemala from which he was adopted by SandraKaye and her husband. Left behind is their biological son, Chris--talented musician, struggling academic trying to fill the dream his father had for Jake--to continue the line of Dr. Dardens. SandraKaye's mother and sister are addicts but she has escaped that life due in great part to the love and care of Uncle Poppy and Aunt Ruth. Now both are dead and Uncle Poppy's house is being sold. Going through the house with the realtor, she sees the many flaws and decided to do some painting and renovation. She encounters kids rummaging through a nearby dumpster for food, decided to make some sandwiches, delivers them only to encounter Cass Blue. Leaving the sandwiches with Cass, she promises to come the next day with more. One lunch leads to the creation of a lunch line and second chances for everyone involved. A lovely, delightful story.
What do You think about The Summer Kitchen (2009)?
After I finished this book, I just kept thinking to go sit down and read some more of it.
—kassilik
Wrong book - why are there two books with the same title and similar covers???
—keke
Incredibly slow book with a very explosive ending.
—pramod100t
