My first thanks goes to my mother, who patiently and creatively fulfilled the picky palates of the three men in her life—my father, my brother, and me—while we were growing up. Watching and assisting her in the kitchen was a treat, as she worked with whatever ingredients were at hand and transformed them into delicious and healthy works of art.
Gratitude goes to the countless centenarians who allowed me into their homes and shared with me their favorite “longevity” dishes and also to the many patients who gave me their family recipes from long-living relatives.
I am lucky to have my wife Emm, whose culinary skills won me over and continue to wow those who get invited to dinner.
Special thanks to my dear friend and renowned photographer Phillip Dixon, whose masterful photographs brought the art out of food. I am also grateful to our masterful food stylist, Kate Martindale, who brought out the beauty in the recipes.
I could not have done this book without the patient and steadfast encouragement and support of my collaborator and designer-extraordinaire Laurie Dolphin, whose beautiful designs grace the pages of this book. I am equally grateful to Allison Meierding, whose ability to channel my thoughts into articulate language and visuals helped to make this material flow. There is no doubt that a book is a co-creation. I appreciate the expertise of Wesley Martin, our recipe editor, and the editing skills of Mary Grace Foxwell and Devorah Lev Tov. A notable thank you to Stuart Shapiro for his tireless support and vision in helping us grow Secrets of Longevity. Finally, my deep gratitude and appreciation goes to Chris Schillig of Andrews McMeel, who had the insight to take this project on and guide it to fruition and also to production editor Christi Clemons Hoffman, who pulled all the pieces together and kept everything flowing smoothly.