Kentucky Reads 2025
Kentucky Humanities presents Kentucky Reads 2025. This year’s book is Savory Memories. Jacquiline Hamiliton will join us again for our Kentucky Reads Book Discussion 2025, Savory Memories. Join us for a discussion at Sterling Microbrew on Friday, August 29th at 6 PM for a pint and a fun discussion.There are only 9 books available, so register for yours soon! Stop by and pick up your book after registering.
About the Book
Savory Memories: Kentucky Foodways is a unique blend of personal narrative, memories, and recipes celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Kentucky through the lens of Kentucky authors. Edited by Linda LaPinta, this collection features essays from 22 Kentucky authors, each sharing personal memories and recipes associated with a particular dish.
Savory Memories is a collection of stories. It’s not just necessarily a cookbook; it’s a collection of personal narratives. Each writer delves into their past, recalling cherished moments and the people who shaped their culinary experiences. These stories evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection, making the recipes more than just instructions—they become narratives of shared history and emotion. It is also a celebration of Kentucky’s culinary diversity. The book highlights the breadth of Kentucky’s foodways, through regional specialties and traditional dishes. From hearty Appalachian fare to elegant Southern cuisine, Savory Memories captures the diverse flavors that have shaped the state’s culinary identity. The book is also a literary treasure. The contributors are all accomplished Kentucky writers, including Linda LaPinta herself, lending their distinctive voices and storytelling skills to the project. Their essays are beautifully written, engaging, and often humorous, making the book a pleasure to read even if you don’t plan on cooking. Savory Memories helps to preserve Kentucky’s culinary heritage. It is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a testament to the importance of food in preserving cultural identity. By sharing their culinary memories, the writers contribute to a larger conversation about the role of food in shaping communities and families.