Anna Cortopassi is a remarkable woman with a remarkable story to tell. Born during the Fascist era in Italy, she has lived through Nazi occupation, the postwar Italian boom, London in the swinging sixties, and the vicissitudes and complex political life of modern Italy. She retired from teaching English in 2003 after a long and fulfilling career in which she passed on her knowledge, experience and enthusiasm to generations of students. Throughout it all, her passion for cooking for family and friends has been a constant. In this unique volume of memories and recipes she invites you into her kitchen to share her personal story, her love of the ingredients and dishes of her region, Tuscany, and her curiosity to explore the world beyond. Anna has now passed on her love of cooking to her children and and grandchildren, who appear in many of the recipes and recollections recounted here with humour and passion, along with many other friends and guests who have enjoyed her generous hospitality and inspired this book.