These attractive books emphasize creativity. Each one begins with spreads that show necessary equipment, describe basic cooking terms, and illustrate ingredients. Substitutions are encouraged, and an ‘Allergy Alert’ is included. The pages are as appetizing as the recipes themselves, with many clear photos and colors; the information is well organized and accessible. . . . These titles deserve shelf space in any collection.

The general instruction pages and the eight or so recipes that follow are written in clear, informal prose and illustrated with bright, sharp color photographs. The bindings and covers have a glossy finish for easy cleanup. Some dishes are simple and could easily be made by the target audience without much adult assistance. Others are more involved. Icons in the text suggest when help may be needed. The finished dishes are, if not spectacular, at least tasty. All of the ingredients are easily obtainable.