Text in Arabic. A highly original novel by one of Mexico’s most important storytellers, Kal Maa’ Lil-Shukulata’s chapters each start with a traditional northern Mexican recipe. Cooking is the exclusive means of expression open to the female protagonist, who does not conform to the limited role that both society and her family have given her. Tita is trapped in a destiny predetermined at birth: family tradition dictates that the youngest daughter must renounce marriage and devote herself to the care of her mother. Tita, however, is passionately in love with Pedro, her eldest sister’s husband.