A taste of France: an evening with Jane Bercht

Date Published: Jun 20 '24

A Taste of France in Kansas City: An Evening with Jane Bertch and The French Ingredient In partnership with Rainy Day Books – June 20, 2024

On a warm summer evening in Kansas City, the charm of Paris came alive at an unforgettable event hosted in partnership with Rainy Day Books. On June 20th 2024, members of the community gathered at the Unity Temple on the Plaza to welcome Jane Bertch, author of The French Ingredient, for a delightful conversation about food, culture, and finding one's place in the City of Light.

With a glass of wine in hand and a macaron or two on the plate, attendees were transported to the cobblestone streets of Paris, where the author’s journey began.

Jane Bertch shared the inspiring story behind The French Ingredient, her memoir about founding La Cuisine Paris, a French cooking school for English speakers. With warmth and wit, she recounted the challenges and joys of navigating French bureaucracy, building a business from scratch, and learning the subtle (and not-so-subtle) nuances of Parisian life. Her tales resonated deeply with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider trying to make a home in a new culture.

The event was more than just a book talk—it was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and cross-cultural connection. Lively questions from the audience sparked conversation about everything from favorite French pastries to the universal language of food.

A special thanks to our wonderful partner, Rainy Day Books, for helping make this evening possible, and to all who attended for sharing in the experience. If you haven’t yet had the chance to read The French Ingredient, we highly recommend picking up a copy—it’s the perfect companion for your next café visit or quiet afternoon.