The novel follows the story of a young girl named Tita who wishes to marry her lover, Pedro, but is forbidden because of her mother's upholding of the family tradition of the youngest daughter taking care of her mother until the day she dies. Tita uses cooking to express herself and this theme is carried out in the way the book is structured. It is divided into twelve sections named after the months of the year with each section beginning with a Mexican recipe which outlines the preparation of the dish while tying it to an event in Tita's life.
I admit from the start I didn't really give this book much of a chance. I completely disagreed with the notion of having to look after your mother until the day she dies. Don't get me wrong I love my Mum and will always care and look after her, but at the same time I will live my own life. Poor Tita wasn't even allowed to look twice at the opposite sex!
I really did try to enjoy the story and hidden life messages as it was a gift for my birthday however, the more I read, the more I disliked the story. Honestly, it was one of those books you just couldn’t wait to finish.
For me the way the novel was written was erratic and the spiritual and supernatural elements were, in my opinion, just odd.
I am positive I have completely missed the point with this novel and missed all the hidden messages about love and life. I also know there are probably lots of people out there who love this novel - unfortunately it just wasn't for me.
Signing off
Em (hoot hoot)
