Book Review: 'Julie & Julia' by Julie Powell

✰✰✰ Julie Powell is just your average, bored secretary in New York City. As she approaches her thirtieth birthday, she's feeling extra dumpy. Faced with few prospects and a mother nagging her about her biological clock, Julie is looking for a change. But what?

One night after an especially soul crushing day, Julie whips up a simple potato soup that just happens to be Julia Child's recipe for Potage Parmentier. And just like that, Julie and her husband come up with an idea. Why not cook her way through Mastering the Art of French Cooking by Julia Child, Louisette Bertholle, and Simone Beck and blog about it? It was a win-win idea. Not only would they get to eat French food, but Julie would learn cooking techniques, and be able to write about it. And so, the Julie/Julia Project was born.

But as with Potage Parmentier, the project wasn't as easy as it sounded. Cooking 524 recipes in one year would prove to be hard work. Julie worked full-time and ingredients were sometimes hard to find. Little by little, people began to read her blog. And despite her use of snarky, foul language, brutal honesty, and some mean spirited comments, Julie began to learn. Not only did she learn about French food, but through taking chances and trying new things, like eggs, she began to grow as a person. The result is humorous a book about being yourself and perseverance.

The Bottom Line: Although the concept is interesting, Powell's liberal use of foul language and whining was difficult to read through.  As she writes about herself, her friends, and her family, Powell seems to have no filter. She  complains throughout the book; and yet there are a few interesting observations and, of course, tantalizing tidbits about Julia and Paul Child before Julia became a celebrity chef.

At the time she worked her way through Julia Child's recipes, blogging was new and perhaps being able to connect with readers near and far was a novelty. Stories about Powell's friends make the book mildly  entertaining. Was the Julie/Julia Project a stunt or was Powell serious about French cooking? No one can say, but the author. Some fans of culinary biographies might enjoy this.

Book Club Notes: Prior to our actual discussion I heard grumblings about this book in particular. While many had previously viewed the movie, which received rave reviews, the book just couldn't compare. First, the language: Powell swears like a sailor. Second, the complaining:  Powell just doesn't seem like a happy person. Third, the project: Sometimes it did indeed sound like a stunt as Powell seemed to lack sincerity. Nevertheless, Powell did hit on a cool idea and had the persistence to complete the challenge she set for herself. As a group we discussed how Powell did seem to be very honest in her feelings, and there appeared to be some personal growth by the end of the book.

While the book was not a hit with us, the movie was enjoyed by all. We agreed that Meryl Streep's portrayal of Julie Child was phenomenal, and Amy Adams was adorable in her role as the author. What made the movie great was that screen time was almost evenly split between Julia Child and Julie Powell. Additionally, the movie was able to highlight similarities between the two women that wasn't so evident in the book. If you are looking for an entertaining & humorous film, check out Julie & Julia. By the way, the food in the film looks yummy, so it's a good idea to have some snacks on hand before you begin viewing.

All in all, our book club discussion was animated and fun. We gave the movie an average rating of 4.25 (on a scale of  1 - 5, with 5 being the highest). The book didn't fair so well with an average rating of only 3.

On a final note, our group has been meeting via Zoom for almost a year now, so technical challenges are few. We still have to work on making sure everyone gets their fair share of time to speak in our shortened meeting though. 

Discussion questions can be found at the Theology of Work Project, LitLovers, and StudyLib. 

For information about where Powell is now, visit Biography.com 

And those interested in taking a look at the original blog can find it via the Internet Archive WayBack Machine here. 

Details: Julie & Julia: My Year of Cooking Dangerously by Julie Powell. Paperback published by Back Bay Books in 2006 and includes a Reading Group Guide. 310 p. ISBN: 978-0-316-01326-0 

Cookbook Review: 'Betty Crocker Halloween Cookbook'

✰✰✰✰½ At last there is an easy cookbook with kid-friendly recipes dedicated to my favorite holiday of the year...Halloween! I've been searching for quite some time to find a cookbook featuring spooky treats to make for the little goblins in my neighborhood. Finally, I have found what I've been looking for.

Tucked inside the Betty Crocker Halloween Cookbook are seasonal recipes for cooks of all skill levels. After a brief introduction on planning a Halloween party, the book is divided into four sections. Choose from appetizers and drinks; main dishes; cupcakes and cakes; and cookies and other frightfully fun treats. Additionally, there's even a small section for "giftable goodies." Tempting treats to make include: Mummy Toes, Spider Bites, Serpent Subs, Creepy Crawler Cupcakes, Munchable Mice, and more.

Each recipe features a full-color photograph to show you what the finished product should look like. Both the ingredients and the instructions are listed in an easily readable format. Plus, each recipe includes nutritional information. Finally, the cookbook includes "terrifying tips," a metric conversion guide, recipe testing information, and an index. These recipes are so appealing and fun, you'll want to try them all.

Taste Test Notes: The nearly 100 recipes were so tempting that I had a difficult time picking just one to try. My first choice was the Graveyard Bones with Dip on page 36. Unfortunately, my local grocery store did not carry the Pillsbury refrigerated breadsticks, nor did it offer a substitute. Therefore, I moved on to my second choice:  Spooky Spiderweb Pizza on page 78. Once I had gathered all my ingredients, it was a cinch to put it all together. This would be a fantastic recipe to make with kids in the kitchen. They get to work with their hands and enjoy a yummy treat when finished. Surprisingly, the most difficult part of this recipe was getting the pizza dough to fit my round pizza pan. After prebaking the crust, the rest was simple layering. The result was a tasty treat that was completed in 45 minutes.

Spooky Spiderweb Pizza before baking

Nana's Cooking Tips: 1.) You can easily change the toppings to suit your family's tastes. 2.) When it comes time to drizzle the Alfredo sauce on top, be sure to cut the tip of the plastic bag sparingly. You can always go back and cut off a little more.

The Bottom Line: Kids of all ages and adults who are kids at heart will simply adore the delightfully spooky snacks and dishes served up in this Betty Crocker cookbook. The directions are easy so kids can join in the fun by picking out recipes and helping to prepare them. I enjoyed browsing through this cookbook so much that I wanted to give it five stars. However, I did experience some difficulty locating ingredients; thus, the final rating is 4.5 stars. This is a highly recommended purchase for both library and home cookbook collections. Aspiring chefs of all skill levels will find something fun and spooky to whip up for Halloween.

Details: Betty Crocker Halloween Cookbook by Betty Crocker. Paperback published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in 2012. 208 p. ISBN: 978-1-118-38894-5

Cookbook Review: 'Rotisserie Chicken Cookbook' by the Editors of Southern Living Magazine

✰✰✰✰ Now that school is back in session, it's great to find a cookbook that features quick and easy to prepare chicken dishes. Rotisserie Chicken Cookbook is just that book; it features step-by-step directions that are easy to follow and ingredients that are convenient and easy to find. This handy cookbook also includes a tutorial to help you get the most out of your store-bought rotisserie chicken and a handy checklist to help you save time and organize a well-stocked pantry.

Recipes for soup, salad, sandwich, and pasta dishes are plentiful like Fiesta Chicken Soup, Vegetable Patch Chicken Salad, Grilled Chicken and Cheese Sandwiches, and Chicken Marsala Tetrazzini. Additionally, besides chicken dishes, there is also a section featuring recipes for sides like Lemon Broccolini and Spring Potato Toss. The recipes all feature tips in one of several styles: 1.) "Grab and Go" ideas to supplement your meal, 2.) "Simple Swap" ideas for recipe substitutions, or 3.) "From the Kitchen" tips. To make choosing recipes even easier, each page features a heading like "make-ahead," "healthy & hearty," "kid-friendly," or "ready in 30 minutes." Furthermore, each recipe includes a full page full color photograph of the finished dish. Finally, a page of charts for metric equivalents and an index can be found at the end.

Taste Test Notes: I've been looking for a tasty, easy-to-prepare chicken salad recipe, so for my taste test I chose to prepare the Chicken-Horseradish Salad featured on p. 82. The ingredients were easy to find at my local Jewel store. However, I did opt to pick up the roasted chicken breast rather than the whole chicken. Overall, the recipe was very easy to prepare. I only used 2 Tbsp. of the refrigerated horseradish, but the next time I make this recipe, I'll use 3 Tbsp. I used the finished recipe in a sandwich. It was mild with a nutty flavor. While the Hands-on Time is listed at 10 minutes, I think that was for the mixing portion of the recipe. It took me a lot longer to chop and prepare all the ingredients. From start to finish, including cleanup time, I took 90 minutes.

Preparing to mix the Chicken-Horseradish Salad

The finished salad

This recipe is plentiful, and I had leftovers. Since I like salads with a little zip, I decided to add more horseradish and 1 Tbsp. of pickle relish to the remaining portion the next day. The result was a tangy treat.

The Bottom Line: If you are looking for a cookbook featuring recipes that are delicious and super easy to make, then look no further. Southern Living’s Rotisserie Chicken Cookbook is for you. These recipes are sure to please your family and friends. Many of these dishes will appeal kids of all ages. This cookbook is great for cooks of all levels, but especially for beginning cooks or busy moms and dads. This cookbook is versatile and would be a great addition to personal cookbook collections as well. It’s a lot of fun to page through and look at the gorgeous food photography. The only thing missing was a chapter featuring chicken appetizers.

Details: Rotisserie Chicken Cookbook: 101 Hearty Recipes with Store-Bought Convenience by the Editors of Southern Living Magazine. Paperback published by Oxmoor House in 2012. 224 p. ISBN: 978-0-8487-3702-3

Cookbook Review: '4 Ingredients Christmas' by Kim McCosker

✰✰✰✰✰ With just four ingredients per recipe, author Kim McCosker has cooked up a winner. Busy cooks looking for quick and tasty recipes to celebrate the holidays need look no further; 4 Ingredients Christmas offers a variety of dishes from brunch fare to soups and salads. There are recipes for main dishes, sides, desserts, sweet treats, and drinks. Choose from Chocolate-Filled Crepes, Crispy Salmon Salad, Feta-Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Christmas Fruitcake, and many more.

The recipe directions are presented in short, easy-to-read paragraph form. The author also includes recipe options, tips, and hints to make your cooking experience even easier. A full-color, full page sized photograph accompanies each recipe illustrating what the finished dish will look like. Not only are these recipes easy to make, but the result is often a work of art as well. An index is included.

Taste Test Notes: I chose to test the Pancakes with Caramelized Banana recipe featured on page 24.  McCosker includes a simple 4 ingredient recipe for making your own pancakes; however, you can use store bought pancakes or your own favorite recipe. I used Hungry Jack Extra Light & Fluffy Pancake & Waffle Mix. I served the dish with scrambled eggs and sausage for a breakfast brunch that was out of this world.

Pancakes with Caramelized Banana: This recipe is super easy to prepare and yummy!

Nana's Cooking Tips: 1.) I cooked the caramel sauce first by slowly bringing the butter and brown sugar to a full boil. I let it boil for 1 minute before I added the bananas and gently stirred. 2.) Use ripe bananas that are firm, but not mushy. Overly ripe bananas will fall apart in the caramel sauce. 3.) For an extra special touch, garnish with whipped topping and a cherry. NOTE: This banana topping would be excellent on waffles too.

The Bottom Line: This cookbook offers plenty of variety. Since each recipe features just four ingredients (not including salt, pepper, and water), these recipes are simple, easy to prepare, festive, and yummy. Enthusiastically recommended for busy cooks of all levels everywhere. While this is a Christmas cookbook, it's important to note that many of these recipes could be used to celebrate other holidays as well. Finally, this is just one title in the series. For more recipes and information, visit 4 Ingredients.

Details: 4 Ingredients Christmas: Recipes for a Simply Yummy Holiday by Kim McCosker. Paperback published by Atria in 2012. 192 p. ISBN: 978-1-4516-7801-7

Cookbooks to Plan a Summer Feast

Summertime is here. It's time to enjoy trips to the beach, road trips, and some fun in the sun. However, it's also a great time to plan a summer feast. When I think of summer food, I think of burgers, ribs, and grilled salmon for main dishes. For sides I often turn to favorites like coleslaw, macaroni salad, and fruit salad. And although S'mores are my number one dessert of choice (especially with kids around), sometimes I like to try making something different like gingered fruit kabobs or baking a cherry pie on the grill. Whether you are barbecuing, picnicking, or cooking over a campfire, there's a cookbook to help you choose the perfect recipes for your summer feasts. 

Here are my top 5 picks (in alphabetical order):

1. Betty Crocker Grilling Made Easy: 200 Sure-Fire Recipes from America's Most Trusted Kitchens by Betty Crocker (2005) 336 p. ISBN: 0764574531
2. Bobby Flay's Burgers, Fries, & Shakes by Bobby Flay (2009) 160 p. ISBN: 978-0307460639
3. The Book of Burger by Rachael Ray (2012) 336 p. ISBN: 978-1451659696
4. Country Living, Eating Outdoors: Sensational Recipes for Cookouts, Picnics and Take-Along Food from the Editors of Country Living and Kathleen Hackett (2008) 176 p. ISBN: 1588166643
5. Grill It!: Secrets to Delicious Flame-kissed Food by Better Homes and Gardens (2011) 372 p. ISBN: 0470932775

Still looking for more ideas? Check out these titles too:

• 400 Best Sandwich Recipes: From Classics & Burgers to Wraps & Condiments by Alison Lewis (2011) 360 p. ISBN: 978-0778802655
• 500 Barbecue Dishes by Paul Kirk (2008) 288 p. ISBN: 978-1416205098
• Burger Parties: Featuring Winning Recipes from Sutter Home Winery's Build a Better Burger Contest by James K. McNair (2010) 176 p. ISBN: 978-1580081108
• Cabin Cooking: Delicious Easy-to-Fix Recipes for Camp, Cabin, or Trail by Kate Fiduccia (2012) 128 p. ISBN: 978-1616086855
• Charred & Scruffed: Bold New Techniques for Explosive Flavor On and Off the Grill by Adam Perry Lang (2012) 280 p. ISBN: 978-1579654658
• Good Housekeeping Grilling: More Than 275 Perfect Year-Round Recipes by The Editors of Good Housekeeping (2011) 304 p. ISBN: 1588167143
• Grilling Vegan Style: 125 Fired-up Recipes to Turn Every Bite into a Backyard BBQ by John E. Schlimm (2012) 256 p. ISBN: 978-0738215723
• The Japanese Grill: From Classic Yakitori to Steak, Seafood, and Vegetables by Tadashi Ono (2011) 192 p. ISBN: 978-1580087377
• The Kansas City Barbeque Society Cookbook: Barbeque--It's Not Just for Breakfast Anymore by Carolyn Wells, Ardie A. Davis and Chef Paul Kirk (2010) 336 p. ISBN: 978-0740790102

There's something for everyone in these cookbooks. So try something new this year and spice up your summer feasts with new recipes. P.S. Many of these recipes would be great for indoor grilling and cooking as well. 

Note: If you like the clip art, check out Crazy Website.

Cookbook Review: 'Betty Crocker Complete Thanksgiving Cookbook'

✰✰✰✰ The season of autumn features all of my favorite holidays including Thanksgiving, a time to celebrate family, friends, and food. With Thanksgiving being just around the corner, now is the time to start planning.

For tried and true recipes, I often turn to Betty Crocker cookbooks. Betty Crocker Complete Thanksgiving Cookbook includes just about everything you ever wanted to know about cooking the perfect Thanksgiving dinner. The book begins with a Q&A section, where the editors at Betty Crocker have answered questions that readers most frequently ask.

Recipes begin with a chapter about turkey, of course. There is also a chapter devoted just to gravies, sauces and stuffing which is helpful for the novice cook. Those with more experience looking to supplement their usual fare will want to take a look at the chapters dedicated to side dishes, breads, soups, salads, and desserts. The editors have also included additional main dishes like Baked Ham with Zesty Cranberry Sauce, Roast Goose with Apple Stuffing, and Roasted-Vegetable Lasagna. Most of the ingredients are easily found at your local grocery store. I also appreciated the helpful tips for substitutions, do-aheads, and special touches. Finally, recipes include nutritional information, and there is an index at the end.

Taste Test Notes: I was looking for something that I could serve on Thanksgiving morning for breakfast. I found this quick and easy recipe for Surprise Pumpkin Muffins and decided to give it a try. I had everything I needed in my pantry, except for one ingredient. Therefore, while the recipe calls for chopped nuts, I substituted mini chocolate chips instead. Here's the result:

Surprise Pumpkin Muffins are quick and easy to bake.

The muffins were a perfect treat to serve with scrambled eggs and sausage for a quick holiday breakfast. Yum! You can even bake these a day or two early and freeze them. Just take them out of the freezer 15 minutes before serving. Nana's Baking Tip: If using paper liners like I did, let the muffins cool 15 - 20 minutes before removing them. Otherwise, the liners will stick.

The Bottom Line: Preparing a Thanksgiving feast doesn't have to be stressful. Whether you are cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the first time or the thirtieth, you'll find something helpful in this book. The numbered, step-by-step instructions are easy to follow and the tips are helpful. Also, be sure to take a look at the count down menus including the Super-Simple Menu or My First Thanksgiving Dinner. The addition of full-color photographs and the use of black ink rather than maroon would have made this a 5 star book. Highly recommended for both beginning and experienced cooks. Even experienced cooks will find something to add to their holiday table.

Details: Betty Crocker Complete Thanksgiving Cookbook: All You Need to Cook a Foolproof Dinner by the Betty Crocker editors. Paperback published by Betty Crocker (an imprint of Wiley) in 2003. 192 p. ISBN: 0-7645-2574-3

Book Review: FamilyFun Homemade Holidays

✰✰✰✰ Part of the fun of the holidays is the joy of making holiday crafts, gifts, and recipes. What better way to get started with the festivities than with a book from the experts at FamilyFun magazine? This book is chock full of 150 holiday treats, decorations and gifts suited for giving to individuals or planning parties. Included are ideas for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Three Kings Day. Choose from crafts like the Faux Fireplace, Angel Votive, Holiday Garlands, or Popsicle-stick Snowflakes. Recipes include Old-fashioned Gingerbread,   Jolly Jelly Thumbprints, Chocolate Church Mice, and many more.

The Bottom Line: The crafts and recipes in this book are easy to make and kid friendly. Most of the ideas can be made with easy to find supplies and ingredients. There are plenty of full color photographs throughout. Kids will enjoy making these recipes, gifts, and decorations with adult supervision. Enthusiastically recommended for parents, teachers, and librarians looking for festive holiday ideas to use at home, in the classroom, or as a supplement to story time.

Details: FamilyFun Homemade Holidays: 150 Festive Crafts, Recipes, Gifts & Parties edited by Deanna F. Cook and the experts at FamilyFun magazine. Paperback published by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. in 2009. 96 p. ISBN: 978-1-4027-6358-8

Cookbook Review: Santa's North Pole Cookbook by Jeff Guinn

✰✰✰✰ The authority on Santa, Jeff Guinn, brings readers a cookbook narrated by the jolly old elf himself. For each section and recipe, Santa provides some background information and his own stories. His head chef Lars also adds helpful hints and comments where appropriate. The recipes range from the very simple (like Kissel or Cranberry Puree from Russia) to the more challenging (like Black Christmas Fruitcake from Trinidad and Tobago).

Santa has collected over 70 holiday recipes from his annual trek around the world. This cookbook includes  holiday recipes for breakfast, breads, appetizers, main courses, side dishes, drinks, and desserts. Also, an index is included so you can look up recipes by ingredient or country.

The Bottom Line: Add this cookbook to your holiday collection just for the fun of it; it's chock full of interesting facts and trivia. Plus, the type is in Christmas green ink and is easy to read. The recipes are straight forward and easy to follow; however, a few of the ingredients may be a challenge to find. Since the recipes vary in the amount of expertise required, this cookbook is recommended for aspiring chefs of all skill levels. With dishes from all over the world, there's sure to be something for everyone this holiday. Finally, if you enjoy this title, check out Guinn's other books about Santa including The Autobiography of Santa Claus and How Mrs. Claus Saved Christmas.

Details: Santa's North Pole Cookbook by Jeff Guinn. Hardcover published by Jeremy P. Tarcher/Penguin in 2007. 247 p. ISBN: 978-1-58542-589-1

Cookbook Review: A Little Irish Cookbook by John Murphy

✰✰✰½ I found this little gem of a cookbook tucked away on the shelves of my local library. Don't let the tiny size fool you; it contains 50 classic Irish recipes including: Soda Bread, Boxty, Mutton Broth, Champ, and Corned Beef & Cabbage.

All recipes are very short and relatively simple to follow. However, a few of the recipes do assume some previous cooking and baking experience. Recipe instructions are in paragraph form rather than outline form. It also includes charming colored pencil drawings throughout and an index.

This book is part of the International Little Cookbooks series. If you like this one, check out the other titles including: A Little Caribbean Cookbook by Jill Hamilton, A Little Greek Cookbook by Rena Salaman & many more.

The Bottom Line: This is a fun little book to add to any cookbook collection (if you can still find a copy). While it is not a "comprehensive collection" of recipes, it does include an assortment of traditional Irish cuisine. Plus, it's perfect for choosing a dish to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Recommended for everyone interested in cooking up a little taste of Ireland.

Details: A Little Irish Cookbook written by John Murphy & illustrated by Karen Bailey. Hardcover published by Chronicle Books in 1986. 60 p. ISBN: 0-87701-400-0

Cookbook Review: Gifts of Good Taste: The Creative Kitchen

✰✰✰✰½ Gifts from the heart are welcome any time of the year. This latest volume in the Gifts of Good Taste series features 100+ recipes for all gift giving occasions including the holidays.

There's something for everyone with recipes for homemade candies, holiday treats, and snacks. The cookie recipes feature all sorts of fun shapes like fish lures, watermelon slices, and ice cream cones. Bakers will also enjoy the variety of bread recipes for quick breads, muffins, biscuits, and yeast breads. And don't forget the beverages; there's plenty for coffee and tea lovers to enjoy.

Additionally, this book features cute gift presentation ideas like candy boxes, bottle bags, and ribbon roses. Patterns for crafts are included, and most require only basic skills. A recipe index is included as well.

The Bottom Line: Bakers looking for gift giving ideas will welcome this newest addition to the Gifts of Good Taste series by Leisure Arts. The Creative Kitchen features recipes and crafts that are quick and simple to make featuring ingredients and materials that are readily available. Bright, full color photos are included for each recipe and craft. Both bakers and crafters of all skill levels will find a bounty of ideas in this volume. Recommended for all.

Details: Gifts of Good Taste: The Creative Kitchen by Leisure Arts. Paperback published by Leisure Arts, Inc in 2011. 160 p. ISBN: 978-1-60900-124-7

Cookbook Review: Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook by Mary Ann Winkowski

✰✰✰½ How often have you ever yearned for Grandma Sue's lost recipe for meatloaf or Aunt Julie's misplaced recipe for sugar cookies? Perhaps your dearly departed loved one bequeathed her recipes to your sister, but the copies she gave you were "changed" and just didn't turn out right. For those of us who have ever searched in vain for a lost recipe, this book is for you.

Just in time for Halloween, Mary Ann Winkowski, the ghost whisperer herself, brings us Beyond Delicious, a book that is a collection of both recipes and ghost stories. Mary Ann is frequently called in to deal with troublesome earthbound spirits, and interestingly enough these ghosts sometimes share recipes before crossing over. This is a collection of just such recipes and the ghost stories related to each.

The Bottom Line: Beyond Delicious is an interesting collection of ghost stories and recipes. It is both informative and fun to read. Not only did I find several fun recipes to try, but I learned about earthbound spirits as well. The recipes themselves are unique including several ethnic dishes and older recipes. Many of the recipes require some previous cooking or baking knowledge as directions received from spirits can be a bit vague. Also, there were several typos here and there. Overall, this is a unique book that will entice both cooks and readers interested in stories from the beyond.

Details: Beyond Delicious: The Ghost Whisperer's Cookbook: More than 100 recipes from the Dearly Departed by Mary Ann Winkowski and David Powers. Paperback published by Clerisy Press in 2011. 300 p. ISBN: 978-1-57860-499-9 Note: I received a complimentary copy from Clerisy Press in exchange for a review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewer program at LibraryThing.

Cookbook Review: Ice Pop Joy by Anni Daulter

✰✰✰✰ Frozen treats are a summertime staple, and there's still plenty of time to whip up a few of these healthy and tasty pops. This cookbook highlights treats that are "organic, healthy, fresh, and delicious." Each recipe features ingredients that are natural including the sweeteners. With just a few ingredients and a few simple steps, your kids can assist in making their very own icy treats. Choose from fruit, veggie, yogurt, tofu, herbal tea, chocolate, and specialty pops in a variety of flavors. With clever names like Blackberry Swirl, Bing Cherry Tofu Pop, and Lavender Flower Power you'll have fun just deciding which one to try. Each pop recipe also features a full-color photo. Additionally, the book is full of clever tips and facts.

The Bottom Line: Author Anni Daulter proves that healthy can also be cool and yummy. This collection of recipes is the perfect way to get your little ones, tweens, and teens to eat fruit, veggies, and even a little protein. Highly recommended for tasty summertime fun.

Details: Ice Pop Joy by Anni Daulter. Hardcover published by Sellers Publishing in 2011. 128 p. ISBN: 978-1-4162-0625-5

Cookbook Review: Good Housekeeping Budget Dinners!

✰✰✰✰½ This gem of a cookbook is chock full of easy dinners to make on a budget. There's no need to panic when the kids ask, "What's for dinner?" Simply pull out a copy of Good Housekeeping Budget Dinners!: 100 recipes your family will love, and you'll have a delicious, homemade meal ready in no time without breaking the bank.

The Editors at Good Housekeeping have come up with a collection of recipes are easy to follow and presented in step-by-step format. Unlike most cookbooks that are organized by beef, chicken, or fish, this one is organized by "eight roads into feeding your family frugally." These roads include "Cook It Slow and Easy," "Breakfast for Dinner," and "Supper in a Salad Bowl." However, there are still plenty of recipes that include beef, poultry, and seafood; plus, there's pork, pasta, soups, salads, ethnic dishes, and vegetarian delights.

This cookbook includes everything from slow cooker recipes to grilled sensations that your family will love. The book's physical format is a spiral-bound hardcover that lies flat when in use, a handy feature that works well for lots of cooks including me. Additionally, beautiful full-color photos are included for many recipes.

The Bottom Line: The home-style recipes found in this cookbook are both convenient and easy to prepare. Wallet-friendly tips are included throughout. Highly recommended for home cooks who are thinking frugal in these challenging economic times.

Details: Good Housekeeping Budget Dinners!: 100 recipes your family will love by The Editors of Good Housekeeping. Hardcover published by Hearst Communications, Inc. in 2010. 176p. ISBN: 978-1-58816-812-2

Cookbook Review: The Branded Cookbook by N. Sandler

✰✰✰✰½ If you are like me, chances are you have one of these popular products in your pantry: Coca-Cola, Heinz Tomato Ketchup, Hellmann's Mayonnaise, Kellogg's Cornflakes, and Skippy Peanut Butter, just to name a few. But what if you are looking to try a new twist using these time tested favorite brands? Creative Chef Nick Sandler and writer Johnny Acton have the answer in their new book The Branded Cookbook: 85 Recipes for the World's Favorite Food Brands.

This cookbook was created around 17 brand name products; however, it is possible to make substitutions if you prefer. Each carefully selected product features a fascinating background history as well as classic recipes and newly created ones. The recipes are easy to follow and use ingredients that a probably already in your pantry. It also features lots of color photographs and colorful graphics that bring a sense of nostalgia to the pages. An index is included.

The Bottom Line: This cookbook is pure fun for foodies. Both seasoned chefs and the cooking challenged alike will enjoy this treat. It's bright and colorful, while the interesting trivia will keep you entertained. I know I'm looking forward to trying Nutella Brownies, Tabasco Spicy Potatoes, Basil and Philadelphia Ravioli, and Malted Camp Coffee Milkshake.

Details: The Branded Cookbook: 85 Recipes for the World's Favorite Food Brands by Nick Sandler and Johnny Acton. Hardcover ed. Published by Kyle Books in 2009. 160 p. ISBN: 978-1-904920-91-5

If you like cookbooks that feature brand name products, then try these classics: Favorite Brand Name Recipe Cookbook, The Old-Time Brand-Name Cookbook, and Hershey's Chocolate Cookbook.

Cookbook Review: Woman's Day Thursday Night is Hearty Meat

✰✰✰✰ This recent release from The Editors of Woman's Day features recipes that are super easy and quick to prepare. It's the perfect resource for meat lovers on the go. You won't find a single fish or vegetarian dish in this slim cookbook.

The Editors have chosen recipes featuring ingredients that are readily found at your local grocer. Most of the recipes can be prepared in about 30 minutes by following just a few simple steps. Each recipe features full color photo of the finished dish and basic nutrition information. There are also options for variations on a recipe and tips for what to serve with a dish where appropriate.

This cookbook is divided into just 3 chapters: Beef, Chicken & Turkey, and Lamb, Pork & Veal. Tempting recipes include: Shepherd's Pie, Hungarian Beef Stew, Roasted Chicken & Root Vegetables, Curried Lamb, Pork & Cider, Stew, and Osso Buco. As a bonus, several hearty slow cooker recipes are featured as well.

The Bottom Line: This slim cookbook is easy to use and follow. There's a variety of recipes to temp even the most finicky eater. While this cookbook lacks an index, most cooks will be able to find what they are looking for any way due to its simple organization. Whole heartedly recommended for cooks with busy schedules who are looking for simple, tasty recipes packed with protein.

The Details: Woman's Day Thursday Night is Hearty Meat: The Eat-Well Cookbook of Meals in a Hurry by the Editors of Woman's Day. Published by Filipacchi in 2009. Edition: Original, Paperback, 96 pages. ISBN: 978-1-933231-62-4

Cookbook Review: EatingWell Comfort Foods Made Healthy by J. Price

✰✰✰✰ January is a great time to cook and serve comfort foods. Traditional comfort foods are tasty and familiar foods that often evoke pleasant memories of childhood. Usually these are home-cooked meals that "stick to your bones" and boost both mood and energy.

But what about all the saturated fat and salt associated with comfort foods? The gooey cheeses, meats, and creamed sauces common to comfort foods might not seem compatible with healthy eating at first glance. However, the staff at EatingWell have taken many of our favorites and made them healthier.

EatingWell Comfort Foods Made Healthy: The Classic Makeover Cookbook includes an introductory chapter for those new to healthy cooking. There are plentiful tips for healthy eaters including: principles of healthy cooking, stocking a healthy pantry, reading nutritional labels, and suggestions for portion size. There are 10 recipe chapters including everything from appetizers to salads, meat dishes to vegetarian, and don't forget desserts. Recipes include classics like Hot Artichoke Dip, Caesar Salad, Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich, Old-fashioned Chicken & Dumplings, Au Gratin Potatoes, French Silk Pie, and my personal favorite, Chicken-Fried Steak & Gravy. Indexes for Makeover Tips and Recipes are included too.

The Bottom Line: EatingWell Comfort Foods Made Healthy: The Classic Makeover Cookbook features easy step-by-step directions for each recipe. The book has plenty of appetizing color photos. Additionally, nutrition information is provided for each recipe. While the paperback lays flat and makes for easy reading while cooking, the only drawback is that the binding is not very sturdy. Thus, pages tend to fall out of the paperback rather easily. Enthusiastically recommended for home cooks of all levels.

Details: EatingWell Comfort Foods Made Healthy: The Classic Makeover Cookbook by Jessie Price & the Editors of EatingWell. Published by The Countryman Press in 2009. ISBN: 978-88150-887-1

Visit EatingWell for more information and free recipes!

Cookbook Review: Japanese Hot Pots by T. Ono & H. Salat

5/5 stars. Lovers of Japanese food are already familiar with sushi, but now they have another treat to try. The art of table top cooking is demystified in Chef Tadashi Ono and food writer Harris Salat's new cookbook Japanese Hot Pots: Comforting One-Pot Meals.

Hot pots or onabe are a staple in Japanese cooking especially in the winter months. These dishes are known for being simple and easy to prepare. While you can prepare them using a stove, for added fun try cooking tableside and get the whole family involved.

Authentic recipes are featured in this beautifully illustrated book. The recipes are clearly written and easy to follow including hot pot recipes for vegetables; fish and seafood; chicken and duck; and beef, pork, lamb and venison. There is an index and a handy section on resources for those hard to find items.

The Bottom Line: Perfect for the wintertime cooking, this cookbook fills a unique niche in Japanese cooking. Highly recommended for all home chefs looking to try something new and fun.

Details: Japanese Hot Pots: Comforting One-Pot Meals by Tadashi Ono & Harris Salat, 2009. ISBN: 978-1-58008-981-4

Cookbook Review: Great Salads and Sides by F. Smith

4/5 stars. More than just leaf lettuce on a plate, salads have been transformed in Fiona Smith's new cookbook, Great Salads and Sides: simply delicious recipes for everyday eating and entertaining. The book offers mouth-watering recipes for both side salads and entrée salads including everything from Classic Caesar Salad to Pork & Lentil Salad. There is also a great selection of recipes for warm sides including Three Nut Pilaf and Ratatouille. Other chapters include Salsas and Dips; and Relishes, Pickles, and Sauces.

This book features gorgeous food photography in full color by Diana Miller. There is also a Glossary of Ingredients, Index, websites, and conversion charts. A beautiful addition to any cookbook collection. However, there is one area which could be improved; the font is too small and light. Bolder text would make reading the recipes much easier.

The Bottom Line: You don't need to be a vegetarian to enjoy a salad. Recommended for cooks of all levels.

Details: Great Salads and Sides: simply delicious recipes for everyday eating and entertaining by Fiona Smith, 2009. ISBN: 978-0-84597-837-2