This Is Not a Cookbook

A Chef's Creative Process from Imagination to Creation

By: Flynn McGarry

Narrated by: Flynn McGarry

Length: 56 mins

Publisher's summary

In this uniquely accessible nonfiction work for young listeners, Chef Flynn McGarry, who at an early age discovered a passion for food and cooking and has since gone on to receive wide-acclaim as a chef, shares his insights and explores the elements of creativity as he encourages young listeners to mix passion, hard work, and their own unique perspective to achieve results that might just be life-changing.

When Flynn McGarry was ten years old, he started to cook in a serious way. At first he simply wanted to make better food for his family, so with the help and support of his parents, he turned his bedroom into a personal kitchen. Yes, his curiosity was intense. He committed himself to developing his knowledge of food and culinary technique by reading cookbooks and watching chefs on YouTube and the Food Network. He then pieced together information that excited his sensibilities, paying attention to every detail—from the design of a kitchen to the type of container being used, from the color and texture of food to its arrangement on a plate. He thought not only about menus and the taste of food, but also about where it was grown and how it was harvested.

Now in his midtwenties, Flynn is a well-known chef with his own restaurant and much more happening in his life. Still, with all his success, this modest young man is inspired to share his creative process and his innovative thinking about aesthetics and food, especially with young people.

Of course, some of Flynn’s favorite recipes are included, for those who also want to cook and eat well!

©2023 Flynn McGarry (P)2023 Listening Library

Critic reviews

“Like a well-plated meal, this whimsical book will find its reader, who will savor it to its last morsel.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Part-memoir/part-inspirational guide. [McGarry] walks fellow dreamers through the hurdles of following one’s passion and embracing creative thinking. Dara’s illustrations bring the pages to life.” –School Library Journal

“This clever book encourages kids to tap into their creativity. McGarry makes clear that when you combine passion and hard work, dreams can be achieved. Vibrant illustrations perfectly pair with this lively, inspirational story.” —Kendal Rautzhan, Books to Borrow . . . Books to Buy

Great story - should be a movie

This is such a unique and lovely story of a young boy becoming the man he always dreamed of….. and a great mother son relationship. Loved it.