Within the pages of this beautiful book, author and illustrator Lindsay Gardner shines a spotlight on the inspiring achievements of women in food today. From Food52 cofounders Amanda Hesser and Merrill Stubbs to The Chew host Carla Hall to slow food activist and chef Deborah Madison, soba maker and sake sommelier Mutsuko Soma, food journalist Ruth Reichl, community organizer Shakirah Simley, and more, Why We Cook celebrates those who are dedicated not only to their craft, but to supporting other women within the industry.



Alongside the text are Gardner’s vibrant and gorgeous watercolor illustrations that bring these women to life. Meet changemakers, like Cristina Martinez, a chef who emigrated from Mexico and who brings her Philadelphia community together through food while using her platform to champion immigrants’ rights; and Leah Penniman, who describes a day in her life on Soul Fire Farm, which she co-founded to combat racism in the food system. Evocative reflections on food and memory, like Rachel Khong's ode to her mother's love of fruit. And narrative recipes, like restaurateur Nicole Ponseca's Bibingka. The result is an inspiring, empowering, and moving celebration of the place where food meets feminism.



Lindsay Gardner is an illustrator and artist who lives in Oakland, California, with her husband and two daughters (her two favorite sous chefs). Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, her penchant for stories and art led her to study American literature and art at Middlebury College and to earn her MFA in painting from San Francisco Art Institute. Her illustrations have appeared in cookbook and editorial projects, advertising campaigns, and stationery and interior design collaborations, and have been featured on Eatingwell.com and in Flow and Uppercase magazines, among others.