Discover the Hidden Depths of Food in Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell’s ‘The Joy of Snacking’

Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell is a talented cartoonist and illustrator. You might recognize her work from The New Yorker or the local Greenpointers Holiday Market.

Her new book, The Joy of Snacking, dives into her life through food. It explores how our meals impact our emotions and memories. Ahead of its release on October 7, Campbell shared her thoughts on snacks, burlesque, and her unique experiences with food.

Curious how the idea of snacking turned into a book? It started with a comic she created during the pandemic. The comic, titled “I’m not a foodie, but I’m not a bad person,” reflected her relationship with someone who was very passionate about food. She realized her connection with snacks was different. This experience opened up a lot of emotions she hadn’t expected.

“When I write, I need to feel that I can talk about the subject endlessly. That’s how I knew I could transform this comic into a book,” Campbell explained. Food culture, especially in New York, is prominent, and she often felt out of place. Her exploration became a way to process her past, including her struggles with an eating disorder. Unlike portrayals in movies, Campbell’s experience was subtler, often unseen by those around her. She emphasizes that many people fight similar silent battles.

A look back at her favorite snacks stirred some nostalgia. The book features stories paired with recipes, revealing quirky favorites from her past, like salami and cream cheese tacos. “They sound strange, but they were a joy,” she laughed. She even revisited childhood meals, like those nostalgic TV dinners, which were comically awful as an adult. “Kid Cuisine was vile, but we laughed so hard eating it again,” she said.

Campbell’s journey into burlesque also inspired her. Growing up, musicals captivated her. “I loved the showgirls and the glitz,” she recalled. After moving to New York City, she discovered the burlesque scene, which empowered her to embrace her body and creativity. Taking a course at the New York School of Burlesque turned into a liberating experience. “Performing made me feel fabulous and free,” she shared.

Her love for Greenpoint shines through too. Some of her favorite local snacks include the vegan chocolate cookie at Paloma and the classic sour cream and onion dip at Temkin’s. These treats remind her of home and comfort, contributing to the overall theme of her book.

On October 7, she’s hosting a book event at WORD (126 Franklin St.). Excitement fills the air as Campbell gears up for both a signing and a launch party at the Slipper Room, featuring performances from friends and performers she admires. “It feels like planning a wedding, it’s that special,” she laughed.

“Writing this book has been a healing journey for me. I hope it resonates with young people, showing them they don’t have to conform to societal expectations,” she said, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance.

The Joy of Snacking releases on October 7. You can pre-order it at WORD. Campbell’s journey and heartfelt reflections might inspire you to reconsider your own relationship with food.

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