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. 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. This book tells the extraordinary story of this woman's 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, but reveals how her iron will ensures that she remains one step ahead of her rivals.