THE MEMORY CAKE

A Mediterranean confection bridges both generations and generational trauma.

The nameless young protagonist is visiting Nanna, who lives on the island of Malta. The tan-skinned pair head to the kitchen to prepare a cake for the feast of Santa Marija. Why is this day so special? Nanna explains that during World War II, a fleet of ships known as the Santa Marija convoy deftly escaped enemy bombers, bringing necessary food and supplies to the people; their arrival coincided with the feast of Santa Marija. Yet none of this makes sense to the child. Why would anyone attack Malta? When pressed, Nanna recounts not simply the reasons why, but also her time as a child digging shelters, hiding underground to avoid bombs, and lining up for the few portions of food allotted. Drawing from personal experience, Perry brings history to vivid life. Bricking visually renders the past using muted colors, while scenes set in the present are bright and warm. Following Nanna’s talk, the pair eat the rich chocolate cake as the evening fills with fireworks, driving home the contrast between the country’s past and present. Where the book succeeds most is in its intergenerational bond and its subtle reveal to children that their grandparents may have stories to tell. A recipe for the cake is included, as well as an author’s note delving further into Malta’s history.

Sweet and savory all at once; a lesser-known history gets its due.