Step back in time to an era defined by resilience and resourcefulness. From the Great Depression came this remarkable find: a simple handwritten cookbook from 1932, a time when every recipe was a lifeline to hope and survival.

This collection, rescued from obscurity, reveals more than just ingredients—it tells the story of a mysterious woman who lived through some of the most tumultuous years in American history. Self- taught baker Valerie Simpson has lovingly recreated every recipe, rich with flavors that defy the hardships of their time. As you explore these recipes, you’ll be

transported to a world where the simple act of baking became an expression of endurance and optimism. Discover the legacy of a forgotten cook and the enduring spirit of a generation that, despite everything, refused to let go of the sweetness in life.