Nancie Mcdermott

The subtitle says it all. McDermott presents dozens of delicious recipes for pie-loving home bakers in this follow-up to Southern Cakes. With a light hand, McDermott brings in just enough history and context to help bakers appreciate her recipes without fattening her book with too much text. Leigh Beisch's photography adds to the appeal, though some shots of ingredients should have made way for more pictures of actual pies. McDermott splits her plenty in two–chess (Buttermilk, Sweet Potato, Old-School Custard Pies, and others) and chocolate, and includes a helpful lesson on making crusts (or buying them, if need be).

Throw away that take-out menu and turn to one of the recipes in this wonderful new cookbook. Using readily available ingredients and a few simple techniques Quick & Easy Chinese brings the delicious flavors of Asia into anyone's kitchen. Included are many familiar restaurant classics like Cashew Chicken Hot and Sour Soup and even Fortune Cookies—all simplified for easy home cooking. With a wide range of appetizers soups entrees drinks and desserts Quick & Easy Chinese will bring everyone good fortune and good eating.