Book review: Julia by Heather B. Moore
Genre: Historical fiction
Release date: September 2, 2025
Goodreads rating: 4.34
My rating: 4.0
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Did you know that Julia Child… the French cook, author and television personality… was also an intelligence officer during WWII? I was excited to delve into Julia by Heather B. Moore to learn more about this unknown fact (to me!).
The book primarily covers the timeframe from WWII throughout the early 1960s. Heather B. Moore, introduces us to Julia when she is a young woman desperate to contribute to the war effort. Julia is initially rejected by the Women’s Army Corps for being too tall (6’2””) but ultimately joins the OSS (which later became the CIA). We follow her on her postings abroad, learn about her work, are witness to her courtship with Paul Child, and see her rise in the culinary world.
This was a very well-researched book. I found that first part of the book, which covers the wartime period, most fascinating. It moved at a steady pace. The second half is slower but delves deeply into Julia’s dedication to learning how to cook, journey to publishing her first book and the launch of her cooking show. Food lovers will love this section most. Moore also took care to include an amazing afterword with more comprehensive details about key people and events.
This would make a great gift for cooking afficionados!
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for granting me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Other books you may enjoy:
The Last Assignment by Erika Robuck
The Original by Nell Stevens