Cookbook Review: Mrs. Rowe's Little Book of Southern Pies by M. Bryan

4.5/5 stars. Mrs. Rowe's Restaurant and Bakery in Staunton, Virginia is renowned for pie...all kinds of pie. In fact, Mildred Rowe was given the nickname "the Pie Lady" by her loyal fans. Her pies have become the stuff of legend, but now readers can attempt to bake these scrumptious treats in their own ovens with the help of this cookbook.

The book includes pie making tips and techniques as well as a whole chapter dedicated to crusts and toppings. With over 50 pie recipes, chances are that you'll find your favorite in this slim culinary treat. Beautiful full color photos highlight the pies; however, more photographs would have been splendid.

Recipes include the classics: Granny Smith Apple Pie, Fresh Peach Pie, Original Coconut Cream Pie, Classic Banana Cream Pie, and Shoofly Pie. Readers can also try something different: Butternut Squash Pie, Tar Heel Pie, German Chocolate Pie, Watermelon Pie, and Lemon Chess Pie. A full index is included.

The Bottom Line: Highly recommended for both novice and advanced bakers as well as cookbook aficionados.

Details: Mrs. Rowe's Little Book of Southern Pies by Mollie Cox Bryan, 2009. ISBN: 978-1-58008-980-7