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Like many people interested in cooking I have often times dreamt of what it would be like to be a chef.  If you feel the same way, then look no further than Michael Ruhlman’s - The Soul of the Chef.  This book is fabulous and likely to become one of your favorites, if you love food.  Ruhlman takes you up close and personal with what it’s like to be a chef. 

The book is broken down into three sections.  The first section is a look at the utterly heartbreaking Certified Master Chef exam.  This section shows the reader just how difficult the world of a chef can be.  He watches as a group of individuals try to make it through this very intense exam.  You get a glimpse at the examinees and what drives them to this nearly impossible dream.  I really enjoyed that Ruhlman tried to understand what motivates people to attempt such a difficult task.  He really gives you an upclose and personal look at the Certified Master Chef exam.

The second section follows an up and coming chef and explores his motivations.  This section really highlights what students take away from their culinary school days and what they decide to change for themselves.  It was fascinating to watch someone as they were becoming famous.

The third section was my favorite.  This section follows Thomas Keller from the French Laundry.  Anyone who loves food will totally be taken in by Keller’s approach and style.  I absolutely loved his discipline and focus.  This section, for me, really showed what the difference between a truly great chef and the average chef is.  This book really examines the motivations and styles of some of the next generation of American chefs. 

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves food.  It’s like getting a backstage pass to a very private world.  I can’t say enough good about this book.  Really, you should read this!  Click on the photo above for a link to read amazon’s review of this book.