Jago Rackham's Genre-Defying Debut 'To Entertain' Explores Dinner Parties as Community
Jago Rackham's first book, 'To Entertain: Instructions for a Dinner Party,' was released by Robinson on April 9. This work combines memoir, culinary recipes, and insights on hosting. It contains chapters such as 'Money' and 'Dinners for Lovers,' drawing inspiration from his grandmother’s 20th-century guide for housewives, which he critiques. The book is dedicated to his partner, Lowenna Hearn, whose autism has influenced their dining experiences. Illustrated by Faye Wei Wei, Rackham, who achieved sobriety during the writing process, adopts a non-judgmental perspective on alcohol. He aspires to foster 'temporary, physical spaces of community' through shared meals, inspired by female writers like Elizabeth David and Patience Gray to promote togetherness.
Key facts
- Jago Rackham's debut book 'To Entertain: Instructions for a Dinner Party' publishes April 9
- The book is published by Robinson
- Artist Faye Wei Wei created illustrations for the book
- Rackham dedicates the book to his partner of 18 years Lowenna Hearn
- Rackham became sober while writing but maintains non-judgmental attitude toward alcohol
- The book blends memoir, recipes, and social commentary across thematic sections
- Inspiration came from Rackham's grandmother's sexist 20th-century housewife guidebook
- Dinner parties originated as financial necessities and safe community spaces in London
Entities
Artists
- Jago Rackham
- Faye Wei Wei
- Lowenna Hearn
- Elizabeth David
- Patience Gray
- Nigella Lawson
- Felix
- Madeline
- Holly Connolly
Institutions
- Robinson
- Substack
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom