I'm nearing my 35th birthday and I finally know what I want to be when I grow up. I want to write a cookbook like this one. This book is everything a cookbook should be. The recipes are appealing, delicious and very do-able. And it's written like a work of fiction. A fantastic work of fiction.
You see, when I read a cookbook, I don't read it for the recipes. Or at least not only for the recipes. I read it for the narrative and the stories. I love the morsels that the author throws in giving the history or background of the recipes she's sharing. I know, I'm weird, but I have cookbooks on my night table. I read cookbooks for pleasure.
Whether you're weird like me, or just looking for a good source for easy new recipes, please buy this book! It's just wonderful to read, and the recipes are lovely.
Favorite Recipes
I've only tried a few, but couldn't wait to blog about this amazing addition to my collection. The Zucchini with Mint and Garlic is a classic and the Roasted Spiced Cauliflower is wonderful. I'm looking forward to trying the Creme Brulee French Toast soon. (I'll let you know when I do.)What I like about this book
I love a cookbook that reads like fiction. This one really does. While the recipes are the focus of the book, each one is prefaced by a beautifully written story that tells you how the recipe came to be. Delightfully written.
What I don't like about it
I don't have much to criticize. I'm a real stickler for food photos, so it was disappointing not to have any.
My ratings
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| How’s the food? | Yuk. | Nothing to write home about. | Good enough to make again. | Wow. I’d eat it every day. |
| Are the recipes easy to follow? | Nope. | Pretty much. | Yes, the instructions are clear. | Terrifically written, even for a novice cook. |
| Is it a good read? | Yuk. | Readable but nothing special. | Sure. | Great reading. I’d keep it on my night table. |
| How do you like the design of the book? | Yuk. | Alright. | Good. | Flat out fantastic. |
It's so great to see a fellow lover of this cookbook! It is absolutely one of my favorites. Great review!
ReplyDeleteI love reading cookbooks too---whenever I get a new one, I read it cover to cover (and then go through again). It's so much fun, and about way more than the recipes! I'll check this one out :)
ReplyDeleteSounds like the perfect gift for my sister! She LOVES to read cookbooks the way you described..cool gonna get it for her as a birthday gift..thanks for the review:)
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Daniela
http://isreview1.blogspot.com
You and Joanne both like this book. That means, I have to get it. I have thought about buying it before but knew nothing about it. Now I do know. I am going to check it out and find an excuse to get it.
ReplyDeleteYou, go write that book.
I took this book out from the library. It was a good read, but I didn't make any of the recipes. Now, I want to give it a second look.
ReplyDeleteWell you have sold me. I have seen this book and might actually buy it now. wasn;t sure about the level of recipes but it sounds good based on your review! Thanks girl!
ReplyDeleteI thought I was the only one who read a cookbook cover to cover! I guess it is the mark of a food lover!
ReplyDeleteI love your rating system! It needs to go on my wish list!
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