The Cuttlefish

The Cuttlefish is the first book by French novelist and poet Maryline Desbiolles to be translated (by Mara Bertelsen) into English. The narrator is preparing a dinner for friends. Each chapter begins with ingredients and instructions for a stuffed version of the eponymous mollusk; the narrator's cooking is the impetus for ruminations on love, memory, childhood (including a terrible accident she endured), dreams and, above all, food. ""Turned over and over in the juices of the mouth, the memories are there,"" she observes. Though at times a little overcooked, this slim novel is a charming diversion, especially for foodies. ( June 15)