Book excerpt: Food is at the center of most cultures around the world. Even in the poorest regions, people show hospitality by feeding neighbors and guests. Shared in tribute to her late son, Francis, Heather Sommer offers his collection of unique recipes that invite us to have a delicious meal with Francis while encouraging home cooks to explore their own creative talents in the kitchen. In addition to his delectable recipes, Heather also includes touching reflections that provide a glimpse into the life and loves of Francis, who was an army veteran and gourmet chef before his death in 2011. His recipes include such diverse and decadent dishes as fig jam, chocolate éclairs, eggs benedict, shrimp e