A spirited biography begins with an epigraph by Julia Child: “No one is born a great cook, one learns by doing.” And “do” she did. Born Julia McWilliams, Julia grew up knowing nothing at all about cooking. As a clerk typist for the U.S. Office of Strategic Services during World War II, she met future husband Paul Child, who introduced her to the delights of French cuisine. By the time they got married, Julia had created one recipe—for shark repellant. She still did not know her way around a kitchen. But after a “life-changing” French meal of sole meunière, she was determined to learn how to cook fresh, flavorful food herself. The only woman enrolled in her classes at Le Cordon Bleau, she was mentored by chef Max Bugnard, who taught her not only culinary techniques but also how to select the freshest, most delicious ingredients available at outdoor markets. Perhaps more than anything, Julia cooked with good humor, patience, and passion. Although her professional successes (cookbooks, her own cooking show) are detailed in an author’s note, the main narrative sheds a light on her love of learning, passion for good food, and cheerful attitude, all of which served her well on her way to becoming a great and beloved chef. Vibrant digital illustrations capture her personality and physical presence (she was 6’2”), as well as the adoration between Julia and Paul. (Ages 5-8)