SCPL Online NonFiction Book Club discussion

Sufficed to say, this book is rather different than the one we read and discussed last month. Less romance and more hard-hitting blunt honesty - beginning with that title!

Jen Agg has been described as "one of Canada's most influential restaurateurs and the hospitality industry's foremost feminist firebrand." Although the B-word in the title is sure to draw a lot of attention (it sure caught mine!), it's the preceding five words that are also important - because Agg is someone that people talk about, in both the positive and negative sense.

What were/are your first perceptions of this book? Does a title that dramatic draw you in or give you cause to be cautious?

Hi,
When I first read the title, I thought, " oh no!, this girl is going to bring some drama, and not in a good way". Whenever girls call themselves the " b" word or represent themselves as a "b" I find that they are generally lacking in self esteem ( in my experience) and they feel like they have something to prove. I tend to avoid these types of girls, and I am cautious.

Nancy.

That’s funny Nancy. I had a totally different reaction. Maybe I’ve read too much Anthony Bourdain but as soon as I realized she was in the restaurant industry I thought, “Of course she’s a “b”, don’t you have to be?” It’s a notoriously tough male dominated industry and even though she’s more in management than in the kitchen, it didn’t surprise me for a second that people would describe her that way. That’s often part of the recipe for success (pun intended ;) )

So far I’ve found the book very readable. She made, what I would consider, a lot of dumb choices in her childhood/youth, but she owns them with that blunt honesty. I’m also loving the Toronto setting…and I have a strong craving for charcuterie…

I love it that you both had different reactions and there is definite merit in both of your responses.

Nancy, I totally hear what you're saying. Whenever there is questionable language in the title of a book it seems like it's a desperate plea for attention and that drama will be undoubtedly present. Though once you get into the book you'll come to realize that Jen thrives on drama!!

I'm glad you're liking the book and finding it to your taste Heidi! (how many culinary puns can we do this month??) I agree with you that it would be difficult to manage a restaurant in an urban centre without bringing out the b-side of one's personality.

Ha! “Thrives on drama” is right. That is a totally appropriate accusation!