Food writer Tim Hayward pens book on knives

Quadrille has signed a book about the cook's knife from award-winning food writer and broadcaster Tim Hayward.

Knife: The Culture, Craft and Cult of the Cook's Knife explores 40 different types of knife, ranging from Damascus blades to Chinese cleavers and sushi knives, through interviews with knife-makers, chefs and collectors. The book, described as "an unprecedented study" of the knife, will look at knife design and history through to contemporary forges and specially-commissioned chefs' knives.

Publishing director Sarah Lavelle signed world rights from Tim Bates at PFD.

Lavelle said: “The chef’s knife is a cult item, a beautiful triumph of form and function. Knife will be this year's must-have Christmas gift for anyone obsessed with desirable kitchen kit, whether they’re in the industry or simply a keen home cook.”

Hayward said: “I’ve always had a thing for knives. I love the way they all tell a story, from a £3,000 sushi knife to your Nan’s cake slicer. Their unique roles in our lives, culture and social history just fascinate me."

Hayward writes a regular column for the Financial Times, presents BBC Radio 4's The Food Programme and appears as a panellist on The Kitchen Cabinet. 

Knife publishes on 20th October 2016 in hardback priced £20.