Library Journal
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Bittman, author of more than 30 acclaimed books, including the popular "How To Cook…" series, offers his first volume focusing on young people. The cookbook takes a comprehensive approach to introduce culinary basics to youth suggested as eight years old and up. Readers are introduced to kitchen equipment, pantry items, and cooking terms in easy-to-understand language that encourages experimentation and a focus on personal favorites and taste. There are frequent reminders to enlist the help and partnership of an adult to explore and learn. Each section is broken down to explain ingredients, steps, and variations that speak directly to younger palates, such as a section on sauces both sweet and savory that can enhance recipes throughout the book. From morning to evening and snacking in between, all is covered and highlighted with fun illustrations and photographs of young chefs in action making stunning food. Each recipe is introduced with a quick description and indicator of ease. A special section discusses types of vegetables and their uses, enticing young people to explore, taste, and prepare in fun and delicious ways. VERDICT A solid entry that encourages parents to introduce all things food and kitchens to young people at all levels of skill and interest.—Ron Block