"Five Quarters of the Orange" is a novel by Joanne Harris that weaves a complex tale of memory, food, and family secrets. Set in a French village, the story follows Framboise Dartigen, an adult woman who reflects on her difficult childhood during World War II. Framboise runs a small crêperie, where she uses recipes from her mother, who had a complicated and often harsh relationship with her. The narrative explores how food ties her to her past, evoking both nostalgia and pain.
The novel alternates between Framboise's present life in the village and her childhood memories. Her mother, known for her fierce temperament and dark history, is a central figure in shaping Framboise's identity. As the story unfolds, Framboise grapples with the duality of her memories, revealing the effects of war on personal relationships. The village's inhabitants play a significant role, as they hold their own judgments and prejudices that influence Framboise's interactions.
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