Willard Library is pleased to announce the book selection for the 2024 Battle Creek Reads, Buttermilk Graffiti by Edward Lee. The author will speak at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at the Kool Family Community Center, 200 W. Michigan Ave.
“Buttermilk Graffiti follows chef and author Edward Lee as he travels across the country, eating food and learning about life from many of the diverse cultures that make up the ‘melting pot’ of America. His goal is to find out how traditional cuisines – and people – change when they cross our borders,” said librarian Brenna LaForge.
Buttermilk Graffiti was the runner up for the 2023 Battle Creek Reads, when The Personal Librarian was ultimately chosen. “There were many guests and staff members who loved the book so much that we decided it would be a wonderful choice for this year’s community-wide read,” said library spokesperson Alisha Daugherty.
During his author talk, “Mr. Lee will speak about how Buttermilk Graffiti came to be, as well as themes of togetherness, heritage, and cuisine. He’ll also discuss his travels, food, and why this story is important,” said LaForge.
Of the book, LaForge also said “Learning about people and cultures that I’m just not totally familiar with has been a really powerful journey for me as a reader. I’m not the most adventurous person or eater, so I truly feel like I can live vicariously through Lee as he does things I wouldn’t have the stomach for.” She continued, “I love that it’s also full of unique recipes that you can try out yourself if you want! It makes it feel a bit like you’re on the journey with him.”
Mr. Lee is the author of Bourbon Land, Smoke and Pickles, and Buttermilk Graffiti. He is the chef and owner of 610 Magnolia in Louisville, Kentucky; and culinary director Succotash in National Harbor, Maryland, and Penn Quarter, Washington D.C. He appears frequently in print and on television, including earning an Emmy nomination for role in the Emmy Award winning series The Mind of a Chef. Most recently, he wrote and hosted the feature documentary Fermented.
Willard Library will have complimentary copies of the book at both locations while supplies last. Guests may receive one copy per person. In addition, Buttermilk Graffiti is available on Hoopla in both ebook and audiobook format, free to download with a Willard Library card.
Books will be available to purchase at the event, and Lee will sign copies after his talk.
