Dames Who Read February 2026: Bread & War by Felicia Spector
There are heroes everywhere and, in the war-torn Ukraine, Felicia Spector traveled with many of them in an effort to hear and share their stories. She worked with Bake for Ukraine, a small non-profit run from Odessa and comprised of food people with a mission of promoting culture as well as fundraising and sourcing equipment for small bakeries which make free bread for those most in need. These extraordinary stories of refugees and restaurateurs who rebuild lives and kitchens in the midst of chaos show a determination to provide good food for a besieged people.
While the war and its victims exist in a very depressing world, the book is “gently heroic and humane. Reading it is like sharing a comforting meal with strangers in time of distress”. Through her writing, you will find humor and humanity in the midst of so much inhumanity.*
Since February is nasty-weather-time in Chicago, this discussion will be on Zoom. And it will be led by non-other than the author herself, who will be joining us from her home in London (thus the earlier start time – please note!)
As a companion book, if you have time to read more, get your hands on Jose Andres’ little book called CHANGE THE RECIPE – "Because you can’t build a better world without breaking some eggs.” Here is one of the most impressive humanitarians and Heros of War, who shows up wherever people are in distress and feeds them. His book is a collection of life lessons-and wisdom from a man who has dedicated his life to changing the world through the power of food.
Since you will be at home and we won’t be dining together, perhaps you will want to break out a loaf of crusty bread and/or make a pot of steaming soup to enjoy as we talk. Felicity has included a few recipes for each in the back of her book for inspiration. I recommend the Mushroom Yushka Soup!
Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Time: 5:00pm CST (NOTE THE EARLIER START TIME)
Location: Zoom
Price: $20
Thank you!
*Quotes from book jacket.
