All the Presidents' Pastries. Twenty-Five Years in the White House, A Memoir

An inspirational rags-to-riches story: Roland Mesnier's journey from rural France to the White House, where he presided in the pastry kitchen for twenty five years. This extraordinary success-story - told by the hero himself - of a young French pastry chef who climbed his way to the top, embodies the great American dream. After working at some of the world's top hotels, Roland Mesnier took on the job of a lifetime as Executive Pastry Chef to the White House. He provides behind-the-scenes insight into the characters, tastes, and obsessions of the five presidents and First Ladies he served during his twenty-five years in Washington. Having witnessed major world events from the hub of the world's superpower, Mesnier has unique perspective on both crises and celebrations. He recounts Carter's incessant battle for the return of American hostages in Tehran, describes the aftermath of the attempt to assassinate Reagan, reveals George H. W. Bush's concerns about Iraq, reports on Clinton's indiscretions, and conveys the shock and sorrow of September 11th. He uncovers the everyday secrets of the White House and recounts such intimate details as Mrs. Reagan's perfectionism, Mikhail Gorbachev's lead foot, and Prince Charles' bewilderment the first time he confronted a tea bag. Fiercely loyal to each of the First Families that he served, Mesnier's message is positive and inspirational. Seventeen easy-to-follow recipes include the favorite desserts of all five presidents and their families.