HUNGER LIKE A THIRST From Food Stamps to Fine Dining, a Restaurant Critic Finds Her Place at the Table

Born in Australia, food critic Besha Rodell lived in the US for many years, but her voice still has the lilt and distinctive accent of an Aussie. She narrates at a good pace and with strong emotion. What sets her apart is that she has had to struggle to succeed in the posh world of fine dining criticism. Her backstory includes being raised by hippies--Australian academic dad and American journalist mom--and stints in restaurant work. Ultimately, she became a food and dining writer for alternative weeklies in Atlanta and Los Angeles. She now lives in Melbourne, and some of the most revealing writing celebrates its cafés and food scene. This James Beard Award winner's memoir is packed with sharp observations and witty repartee. A.D.M. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2025]