Home Page

Autobiography / Biography   Travel / Places   Cooking / Food   Other / General   Crafts / Home Improvement   Humor

Kitchen Life - Real Food for Real Families - Even Yours!
by Art Smith
Hyperion
ISBN 1-4013-0773-6
Published October 2004 - Softcover - 327 pages - $18.95

This is the second cookbook by by Art Smith I've reviewed and I like his approach to preparing easy, quick, and healthy meals.  Above all, I like his promoting family mealtimes together - something so fundamental and an important step in keeping a family together.  Art says, "I want to hand you the keys to the cooking kingdom so that preparing a meal is never overwhelming or a chore but is instead a pleasure."  Not only do we get great recipes but he also answers questions many of us have when it comes to preparing meals.  He has put together fun quizzes to find out what kind of shopper you are, what your time challenges are, what kind of cook you are, whether or not you are eating right, and what your taste preferences are.  In fact, it seems as though he has covered all the basics when it comes to getting organized in your kitchen and pantry.  His food sections include Snacks, Sandwiches, and Beverages; Soups for Supper; Salad for Supper; Meat Main Courses; Perfect Poultry; From the Sea; Casseroles and Pasta Dishes; Side Dishes, and Desserts.  Not all of the recipes are illustrated (there are a few color pictures) but loads of good advice with his "Ask Art" questions and answers throughout the book.
A portion of the proceeds from this book will go to Common Threads, an organization which provides a sanctuary where children can celebrate their diversity and differences.  Art Smith is Oprah Winfrey's personal chef.
Conclusion - Much more than a cookbook - necessary if you want to be in control of your kitchen and bring your family back together.