Tony Shalhoub, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in “Monk” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” has embarked on an exciting literary venture this autumn. He collaborated with his daughter, Josie Adams, to produce a book titled *We Thought They’d Never Leave: Musings on Food and Family*, which promises to be a warm tribute to familial ties and culinary traditions.
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Originally envisioned as a family cookbook, the project took an unexpected turn as Shalhoub and Adams began weaving personal narratives around their cherished recipes. “Before I knew it, we had created something closer to a memoir,” Shalhoub reflected in a recent interview. The duo’s experience encapsulates a collection rich with anecdotes that delve deeper into their family history and the essence of gathering around the dinner table.
The book, set to be released on 27th October by Gallery Books, combines nostalgic memories with a selection of beloved family recipes. Described as “a delightful narrative of nostalgic remembrances and recollections,” it aims to offer readers a glimpse into the Shalhoub family’s annual summer reunions held in Door County, Wisconsin, a tradition that unites ten siblings along with their descendants. Each gathering carries with it decades of shared history, laughter, and, of course, culinary delights.

For Shalhoub, collaborating with his daughter was a particularly rewarding experience. He expressed appreciation for Adams’ contributions, stating that she helped articulate the multitude of recipes and stories accumulated over their family’s rich history. He emphasised the importance of archiving these cherished memories, shedding light on the love and unity that binds their family together.
Josie Adams, who is also a writer, producer, and founder of House of Water, viewed this project as a means to preserve their family’s legacy before it fades away. She revealed her desire to author the book with her father stemmed not only from her affection for the family’s culinary traditions but also from a longing to document their stories. “Getting to work on this with him was incredibly meaningful,” she explained, noting her opportunity to see Shalhoub in different roles—as a father, a son, and a brother.
The book features engaging vignettes from Shalhoub’s upbringing in a lively Lebanese-American household in Green Bay, where meals would often lead to revelry and shared moments. These narratives connect generations and encompass the evolution of family traditions over the years. Alongside the storytelling, the book also includes numerous family recipes that have endured the test of time, enriching the narrative with sensory delights.
Adams conveyed her gratitude for the process of co-authoring the book with her father. She highlighted their shared passion for conversation, which has become a natural continuation through the pages of their collaborative work. “I’m so happy we get to put those stories into the world,” she remarked, expressing her excitement for readers to engage with their family’s journey.
*We Thought They’d Never Leave* is portrayed as a blend of memoir and family history, celebrating the bonds formed through food and gatherings. The book is designed to remind readers of their own familial connections and the joy of shared experiences around the table. With its focus on games, family lore, and a riot of affection typical of large gatherings, it beckons audiences to embrace the warmth that comes from uniting with loved ones.
As the publication date approaches, there is palpable anticipation surrounding the book, which is available for pre-order at various retailers. The release signifies not just a new chapter in Shalhoub’s career as he moves into the world of literature, but also a heartfelt endeavour shared with his daughter. Both Shalhoub and Adams are eager to share their family’s legacy and the rich tapestry of memories that have shaped who they are today.
