Delia Smith is more than just a cook, she has become a national icon with a loyal following of fans and a business empire worth millions. Delia Smith's career spans three decades. Whatever Delia says goes. Such is her influence, sales of products recommended by Delia soar. She single - handedly brought about The Great Cranberry Crisis of 1995 when her fans cleared supermarket shelves of the fruit and a previously small - time saucepan manufacturer saw its turnover soar with a mention of their omelette pan. Companies have been saved by a single recommendation by Delia. But what of the woman behind the ingredients? This book tells the extraordinary story of her life, from leaving school without a single qualification to becoming the undisputed queen of the kitchen. Drawing upon interviews with friends and colleagues, this biography shows that life has not always been easy for Delia. The author reveals the heartache that threatened to destroy her family and how religion helped her to cope with the crisis. Delia - The Biography examines the enormous effect that Delia Smith has exerted over generations of food lovers. It analyses the often - traumatic experiences that have shaped her huge ambition and reveals how her iron will ensures that she remains one step ahead of her rivals.