Simone Beck, commonly known as "Simca," was a French cookbook author and chef born on July 7, 1904, in Tocqueville en Caux, Normandy, France. She is best known for her collaboration with Julia Child and Louisette Bertholle, which resulted in the pivotal cookbook "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" published in 1961. This book played a significant role in popularizing French cuisine in the United States. Beck's passion for culinary arts, along with her expertise in traditional French cooking techniques, contributed to her acclaim. She continued to author cookbooks and teach cooking classes throughout her career, influencing generations of chefs and home cooks. Simone Beck passed away on December 20, 1991, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of gastronomy.