Most recent books set in restaurants, whether focusing on the front of house, the kitchen or away from the building entirely, are a bit on the edgy side. Just witness a book like Kitchen Confidential, for example, or any number of other books that concentrate on the controversy and humor, which can sometimes be a bit rough, of the restaurant industry. The Plated Heart takes a very different view. It tells a softer and more emotionally driven series of stories that take place in the same industry, but is no less compelling.
The book is a collection of short, fictional stories set in Miami Beach that focus on the lives, activities and insights of a number of people who work in or around the food service industry. It touches on how food plays a role in their lives and how they interact with it, whether they are eating, cooking or serving. The seven stories are all stand-alone pieces, but the themes of struggle, success and discovery occur throughout the whole volume.
It's well-written and an enjoyable read. It would appeal to a foodie looking for something to read besides cookbooks, as well as to those who just have an interest in a few good stores. The author, Diane Goodman, will be at the Miami Book Fair from November 12-19.
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