Shortly after finishing third in the Next Food Network Star television series in 2005, one of Jasper, Georgia’s favorite sons and culinary sensation Hans Rueffert was diagnosed with stage-three stomach cancer. He lost most of his stomach and esophagus to the disease, but gained more than he could have imagined—a perspective which has heightened his childlike appreciation for the finer things in life; family, friends, colors and flavors.

You will be educated, entertained and inspired as Hans, the personable and gracious host of Hans Cooks the South, reveals his story through a beautifully written and illustrated cookbook, Eat Like There’s No Tomorrow. A natural storyteller with an appreciation for irony and an eye for all things beautiful, Hans shares his optimistic measuring cup-half-full perspective with this light-hearted collection of original recipes, engaging narratives and glorious photographs.

The original photographs, magical moments harvested and preserved, will stimulate your appetite and the narratives will delight and satisfy you. Who knew growing your own tomatoes, searching for wild ramps, or breakfasting on a shrimp boat could be such an adventure? And though there’s plenty of sustenance here to satisfy, you may not quite be ready to leave the table. You will likely crave a second helping of Hans’ tales, “restaurant boy” revelations and quiet, cancer- wizened perspectives gleaned from living authentically and deliberately.