Cute children's story. It's extremely predictable - girl with Talent is forced to work for mean nasty relative, discovers Magical Shoppe, her talent is allowed to flower, and she uses it (and her relative's greed) to Conquer. The setting and the style are pleasant, and there's some really amusing bits; there's also some large loose ends (where does the reviewer come in? Why does he, apparently for the first time, actually appreciate a chef's work - what's his link to Madame Pamplemousse? and so on). Mildly enjoyable to read once. I could see a child being entranced by it - but it doesn't offer much to an adult (or, at least, to me). ( )

One of the best books I've read in years. Beautifully written, effortlessly charming, and the little hardcover with all the pictures makes a beautiful package. In madame's mysterious and magical food shop, Kingfisher has given us one of those most precious creations in children's literature -- a place like Hogwarts and Narnia and Wonka's chocolate factory that we want to return to again and again, and would certainly live in if we got half a chance. ( )

delightful! wonderful atmosphere and magical cooking. ( )

I read this over a leisurely breakfast one morning. I really liked it. It's a cute story of a little girl recognizing that an adult is doing wrong and overcoming it. Very fanciful. ( )

http://librarycrossing.wordpress.com/2011/07/09/madame-pamplemousse-her-incredib... ( )