Inspired by a single little-known period in Picasso's life, this compelling story interweaves fictional characters with historical ones against the backdrop of enchanting southern France
Provence, spring 1936: the seaside town of Juan-les-Pins is quiet in the off-season. Seventeen-year-old Ondine, her mother's right-hand woman, works in the famous family restaurant Café Paradis. A pleasant distraction for her is a new customer from Paris, the famous Pablo Picasso, who goes by a fake name. Ondine prepares his lunches in the rented villa. Picasso finds himself at a crossroads in his life and a secret stay by the sea in Provence can only do him good. Through him, Ondine begins to discover his abilities, talents and desires. Her meeting with Picasso will affect her life for a long time to come, even though each of them continues on their own path.
New York, present: Céline, a successful Hollywood make-up artist, comes home for Christmas and learns from her mother that her grandmother Ondine once cooked for Picasso. Influenced by hints of a mysterious family history, he sets off for the south of France. In the intoxicating atmosphere of the Côte d'Azur, and with the help of some eccentric friends from her cooking class, Céline can finally open up to the future. He discovers the truth not only about himself and his family, but also the courage to trust his own intuition.
I cooked for Picasso is a readable novel, full of colour and surprising plot twists, about art, Provençal cuisine, family relationships and the power of a creative approach to life. Inspired by a single little-known period in Picasso's life, this compelling story interweaves fictional characters with historical ones against the backdrop of enchanting southern France.
