An Embarrassment of Mangoes by Ann Vanderhoof

Because Ann kept an ever expanding journal and wrote down her experiments with new recipes, she was able to write about her experiences when she returned to Canada. The couple sailed over 7,000 nautical miles, dropped anchor in 16 countries and visited 47 islands. They taught them how to cook local foods and became their friends. Once Ann had recounted the logistics of making their grand escape happen (humourous anecdotes of reducing their living space to a small boat, and wondering if the relationship could survive close quarters), her face lit up with enthusiasm for the overwhelming generosity of the native islanders who welcomed her and Steve into their homes. On their return from the first 2-year voyage they underwent the plan again so they could revisit and explore the islands for a second book, this time including more recipes. Ann found a remedy for seasickness, and both gained physical strength and good health from the sailing lifestyle.

She agonized over concerns for sailing at night alone at the helm, especially as Ann was known for seasickness. They overcame their concerns and learned they complemented each other on their voyage. Weary from deadlines and work pressures, they put together a 5-year plan to save their money, pay off their mortgage, buy a 42-foot sloop, rent their house in Toronto and sail into the unknown. Ann’s travel memoirs An Embarrassment of Mangoes: A Caribbean Interludeand The Spice Necklace (Random House) celebrate sailing in Caribbean waters - not 2-week escapes, but 2-year explorations of Caribbean culture and cooking.Īnn and husband Steve Manley worked for Cottage Life Magazine, Ann as Editor and Steve as Art Director. My friend and mentor, Allyson Latta, organized a September evening for her book club friends and their friends to meet author Ann Vanderhoof.

An Embarrassment of Mangoes by Ann Vanderhoof