Domestic Science

Domestic Science is the sometimes intense, often whimsical, frequently moving and very appealing account of one year in the life of a food technology teacher, who is also a mother, wife and author. The domestic science of the title is a rich metaphor for the intricacies and complexities of family life in the twenty-first century. Month by month, from January to December, we are allowed an intimate glimpse into all her hopes and exasperations, delights and disappointments, joys and sadnesses. Life revolves, inevitably, around school and the school year, with lessons to prepare and shop for, mounds of homework and exams to mark, and sometimes bored and difficult pupils to cope with, and to discipline. Sharing an abundance of magnificent feasts, glorious holidays and canny shopping, Jane Burdiak has created a vivid, absorbing and life-affirming world, full of colour and noise, and activity and thoughtfulness. Skilfully and charmingly written, Domestic Science is a satisfying read that will linger long in your thoughts.