Three summers after the death of her husband, Tembi Locke received a phone call that set in motion a series of events, encapsulated in her memoir “From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home.” Published in 2019, this book not only delves into Locke’s personal journey of love and loss but also explores the fusion of different cultures and the healing power of food and family. The memoir begins with a chance encounter in Florence, where Locke, a smart black Texan, falls in love with Saro, a Sicilian chef. This cross-cultural romance faces its challenges, particularly with Saro’s family initially disapproving of their union due to racial differences.
However, the story is not just about their romance. It’s also about Locke finding a new home and family in Sicily, especially after Saro’s untimely death. She finds solace and spiritual nourishment at her mother-in-law’s table, building a bond that transcends initial misunderstandings. The memoir includes 16 recipes, symbolizing the couple’s culinary adventures and the importance of food in their journey together.
“From Scratch” is more than just a memoir; it’s a testament to the resilience of love, the importance of family, and the transformative power of embracing a new culture. The book was selected as a Reese’s Book Club pick and has been adapted into a Netflix limited series starring Zoe Saldana, further highlighting its impact and reach. Locke’s story is a poignant reminder of how life, in all its complexity, can be delicious and rewarding, even in the face of immense grief and loss.
This narrative is a soul-stirring tale about choosing what to keep from our past and what to leave behind. As Locke navigates her grief and the cultural complexities of her new family, she offers readers a moving portrait of love’s enduring strength.
