Gifts from the Kitchen for Dummies

Rating:
Summary: What a disappointment! Don't waste your money!
Review: ...I collect books on food gifts, but this was the worst I've ever seen. It is written in a [poor] manner, wholly inappropriate for this type of book In the preface, the author states that all of the recipes were tested using unsalted butter -- but doesn't mention that again, so someone who forgot about the preface and tries a recipe calling just for "butter" may immediately ruin it by using standard salted butter. Although the book mentions sources for Lyle's Golden Syrup (required in a number of recipes), it does not state that light corn syrup (e.g., readily available Karo) is a standard substitute -- and I know for a fact that it works fine in at least some of the recipes, because I've used it. The recipe selection seems eclectic and interesting until you notice how vague the directions are (which doesn't bother me since I'm an experienced cook, but is hardly appropriate in a book "for dummies". I could go on and on -- the book was a huge disappointment. ... There are many excellent cookbooks devoted to gifts of food (just do a search here on Amazon)featuring delectable recipes and clear instructions, without distracting "jokes" and silly symbols...

Rating:
Summary: Fun and Easy to do with Kids!
Review: I am a stay-at-home mom, and I home-school my two kids, who are 8 and 11. Since their academic work only takes up the mornings, in the afternoons we go on adventures or do projects at home. My 11 year old's soccer team was holding a bake sale, and we decided to do something a little more exciting than our usual chocolate chip cookies. We had so much fun making the fortune cookies in Gifts from the Kitchen for Dummies that we have decided to do one recipe a week, going straight through the book. My kids had a lot of fun making up fortunes (although I had to nix a few of their more objectionable ones!) and my daughter was the first to figure out how to fold the cookies properly. This book is great for anyone who wants to have fun making beautiful things in the kitchen without going to study at the Cordon Bleu! My kids can't wait to do the chapter on chocolate!

Rating:
Summary: Fun and Easy to do with Kids!
Review: I wish I would have looked at this book in an actual store instead of pre-ordering it on Amazon. It's pretty bad. I'm wondering too if it isn't a reprint of a book from the 70's. If someone gave me frosted sugar cubes, I'd have to rethink the friendship. Particularly hard to stomach, though, is the corny humor. But then, why am I buying a book for Dummies in the first place? Maybe that's why I didn't like it, I'm not an idiot.

Rating:
Summary: trying to be clever, and isn't
Review: I wish I would have looked at this book in an actual store instead of pre-ordering it on Amazon. It's pretty bad. I'm wondering too if it isn't a reprint of a book from the 70's. If someone gave me frosted sugar cubes, I'd have to rethink the friendship. Particularly hard to stomach, though, is the corny humor. But then, why am I buying a book for Dummies in the first place? Maybe that's why I didn't like it, I'm not an idiot.

Rating:
Summary: Perfect Timing!
Review: This book couldn't have come out at a more perfect time! Recently retired, I've been enjoying spending time in the kitchen, but have gotten bored with regular cooking and baking, so I was delighted by the opportunity to try a new spin on kitchen projects. And this book measures up! It's a cross between cooking and the arts and crafts I did as a kid, and I'm having a great time! It's fun to read, and fun to do!

Rating:
Summary: Great book
Review: This book was written for someone like me! Because I have very little in-kitchen experience, even cookbooks intimidate me, since they tend to assume at least some prior knowledge of cooking and baking. Finally, I have encountered a cookbook author who started at the beginning and who explained the basics in a clear and straightforward way! She then went on to spell out fun and interesting recipes that even I could follow! I'm so excited to be able to give gifts that take time and energy, that are clearly made and given with love, and that also look and taste impressive! -- Home-spun and polished at the same time! I am going to give this book as a pre-Christmas gift, so that my friends will be able to actually use it at Christmastime! I'm thrilled with it!

Rating:
Summary: Fun and Informative!
Review: This book was written for someone like me! Because I have very little in-kitchen experience, even cookbooks intimidate me, since they tend to assume at least some prior knowledge of cooking and baking. Finally, I have encountered a cookbook author who started at the beginning and who explained the basics in a clear and straightforward way! She then went on to spell out fun and interesting recipes that even I could follow! I'm so excited to be able to give gifts that take time and energy, that are clearly made and given with love, and that also look and taste impressive! -- Home-spun and polished at the same time! I am going to give this book as a pre-Christmas gift, so that my friends will be able to actually use it at Christmastime! I'm thrilled with it!

Rating:
Summary: Great book
Review: This is a great book to buy for the holidays. I am buying one for my sister in law and my mom, too. It will help us save money on gifts, since homemade is best. Easy to follow and fun!