This is a great book for beginners or seasoned cooks as well, There are great ideas on everything from spices, cooking methods, cookware, This would be a great FIRST book for anyone wanting to find out about any of the aspects of the art of cooking, and it is an art. You will continue to go back to it for reference for many years. GET IT NOW AND KEEP IT CLOSE TO THE STOVE

I bought this book for my cousin who has just recently moved out on her own and has no cooking knowledge whatsoever.....I can't wait untill we exchange gifts on Christmas because I think she's going to LOVE it.....It's informative and cute and has some realy good recipes. And overstock had it for a really good price....the price plus shipping was still cheaper than I could find it in any book store. I GREATLY recomend