The title refers to a phrase cooks, usually at the top of their lungs, uses to emphasize the need for speed. Working the line even on a slow night needs precision and focus. It is not for the faint of heart. In the days when Mr Boudain worked the line this phrase could have been followed with expulsion from the premises. It took massive guts to prevail,and massive drugs to relax. The author of this memoir writes with the brash, raw, simplicity that Tony Bourdain held true. It’s explicit and complete a memory as any one in his sphere could recall. We learn how this roller coaster ride began for him, and how confused and empty it ended. In the end I believe as all who have witnessed the cycle of a meteor. We are the better for his presence and the worst for its wear. It is clear Mr Bourdain crashed through life, invitation at the ready if needed, and smiling at the gall to appear.

Tom gives us the gift of seeing Anthony as he did - as a co-worker, friend (of sorts?), and as a complicated human...who was hard to work with. As a TV producer myself, I was blown away from Tom's writing and honesty about not only working with Tony, but also the grind of TV production. I read this in one sitting.

This was an advanced copy given by #NetGalley

Very Interesting. Loved Anthony Bourdain and this was some great stories and tales.... A nice break from our crazy world.