The Measure of Her Powers

Book excerpt: Any discussion of the great masters of American English must include the writings of Mary Frances Kennedy Fisher. For more than sixty years, in her writings about family, food, and travel, Fisher amassed a body of work that belongs on any shelf of classic American writing. Assembled here in this new edition is a generous selection from the books from throughout her career, arranged chronologically, and with this volume, we fortunate readers are now offered a magnificent, intimate survey of her life and writing. Whether reflecting on her father's affinity for the underdog or bravely navigating the trials of old age, Fisher's candor and wit are vigorous and infectious. Tales of travel, childhood memories, recipes massacred and perfected, meditations on World War II, and thoughts on cataract surgery—the range of stories on her palette is surprising and original. The Measure of Her Powers, finely edited by Dominique Gioia and introduced by Ruth Reichl, will captivate those who have never read Fisher and deepen the appreciation of her many fans.