School Library Journal Review

Gr 4--6--The recipes in this book are a smorgasbord of dishes, treats, and beverages from around the globe, indexed by both meal and region. All of the typical cookbook elements are present: kitchen rules, tools, techniques, and terms. Unique features include lessons on pronunciation, global taste tests of international foods with pictures and descriptions, and suggestions for entertaining with an Italian antipasti platter or Middle Eastern meze. Each recipe is presented with step-by-step, full-color photographs of kids cooking; side panels introduce the young cooks with an overview of their heritage and favorite foods. With the cooking skills of an average 12-year-old, this reviewer made atakilt wat, an Ethiopian vegetable stew with carrots, potatoes, and cabbage. This meal required chopping and slicing, but it was easy to put together in just one pot and simmered on the stove top, creating an aromatic delight. The taste was beyond delicious. VERDICT A colorful feast for the eyes, this accessible cookbook highlights a variety of dishes, as well as people, traditions, and foods. Purchase where international cookbooks need an update.--Heather Acerro, Rochester Public Library, MN