Under a Mackerel Sky

This memoir explores Rick Stein's journey from a joyful childhood to the challenges of adulthood, culminating in his eventual return to Cornwall. Under a Mackerel Sky offers a heartfelt reflection on life's complexities.

In Under a Mackerel Sky, Rick Stein shares an evocative memoir that paints a vivid picture of his childhood in the 1950s. Growing up in rural Oxfordshire and North Cornwall, Stein's early years were filled with warmth and joy, surrounded by loving parents and a lively atmosphere. His family's gatherings in their Cornish barn were marked by laughter and music, creating a backdrop of cherished memories. Yet, beneath this idyllic surface lay the unpredictable temperament of his bipolar father, whose emotional struggles often cast a shadow over Stein's formative years.

The turning point in Stein's life came when he was just 18, facing the devastating loss of his father to suicide. This tragedy left him feeling adrift, prompting a journey that took him to Australia, where he worked manual labor in the outback. His adventures continued through America and Mexico, experiences that challenged his sheltered upbringing and forced him to confront his own uncertainties. Despite the challenges he faced, these travels helped shape his identity and resilience.

Eventually, Cornwall beckoned him back, leading to a series of entrepreneurial ventures, including his mobile disco, the Purple Tiger. Stein's narrative is filled with humor and insight as he reflects on his personal evolution, from a naive boy to a successful chef and restaurateur. Under a Mackerel Sky is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the quest for self-discovery.