The old Sicilian legend tells that during the Middle Ages, Saint Joseph sent rain to save the starving people from a severe drought. In thanks for answering their prayers, the Sicilians made offerings of the finest of their crops to honour their patron saint and to feed the poor -- a display of food and faith that continues today. This delicious and beautiful custom, La Tavola di San Giuseppe, came to America at the dawn of the twentieth century as immigrants formed what is still the largest Sicilian population in the United States in New Orleans. In addition to describing the spiritual symbolism of the foods found on the altar, this book includes 19 recipes for the most important of the dishes. Award-winning writer/photographer Kerri McCaffety captures the splendour and significance of this extraordinary ritual, introducing us not only to the beauty but also the cultural and historical importance of this ancient Sicilian tradition. Illustrated with over 120 photographs.