Like Water for Chocolate

Earthy, magical, and utterly charming, this tale of family life in turn-of-the-century Mexico became a best-selling phenomenon with its winning blend of poignant romance and bittersweet wit. The classic love story takes place on the De la Garza ranch, as the tyrannical owner, Mama Elena, chops onions at the kitchen table in her final days of pregnancy. While still in her mother's womb, her daughter to be weeps so violently she causes an early labor, and little Tita slips out amid the spices and fixings for noodle soup. This early encounter with food soon becomes a way of life, and Tita grows up to be a master chef. She shares special points of her favorite preparations with listeners throughout the story.

The Spanish language edition of the best-selling "Like Water For Chocolate" is a remarkable success in its own right. Now, in this mass market edition, thousands of new readers will be able to partake in the sumptuous, romantic, and hilarious tale of Tita, the terrific cook with an extra special something in her sauce.

"A delightful first novel... the fragrant story makes you dream of love and want your supper too". -- "Glamour".

"A mystical Mexican love story... [that] will charm the palate and the heart". -- "USA Today".

"A tall-tal, fairy-tale, soap-opera and home-remedy handbook all rolled into one". -- "San Francisco Chronicle".

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241 pages

Average rating: 7.25

226 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Annie.S
May 17, 2025
8/10 stars
I loved the family drama and dynamics of this story. A great insight into generational trauma and legacy.
LeyendoConLaLatina
Jun 28, 2025
9/10 stars
A classic novel for Mexican literature - I feel like many of us have had the chance to read this book. The magical realism genre isn’t always my first choice, but Esquivel’s writing captures the reader quickly. A story of revolution not only in the country, but inside the De La Garza home. From familial roles and traditions clashing with the times changing to the love story told with food, this book is a favorite of mine. If you have watched the movie or the series adaptations, I highly recommend you read the original book.
Roxanne_Debris
Apr 28, 2025
5/10 stars
SPOILER One of the characters farts herself to death and that was my favorite part
IsaZarur
Jan 14, 2025
10/10 stars
I re-read this book every couple of years. I finished this read in one sitting I couldn’t put it down.
Danicha
Jul 04, 2024
9/10 stars
Loved the cookbook metaphors and how they were intertwined with the story! The story is very well written (I read it in Spanish) and it’s highly engaging! I read it cover to cover in a week! I was not a fan of the ending, but I enjoyed the story anyway.

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