School Library Journal Review
Gr 3-6-What's a game day party without hot dogs two ways? Wouldn't you like a recipe for an impressive make-ahead brunch casserole that feeds a crowd? The recipes in these books (nine per volume) hit the sweet spot between basic but bland and impressive but intimidating. Harmonious design with a retro country look (kraft paper and faux hand-drawn block letters) keeps this series looking gender-neutral. Pictures of diverse children and families appear in the front matter, where readers learn about planning, organization, and presentation, but only hands appear in the two or three process photos that accompany the recipes. An unusually good cookbook series for kids who already know the difference between simmer and boil. (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Horn Book Review
Each volume emphasizes characteristics of being a good cook (efficiency, creativity, organization, etc.); introduces a cooking technique and safety guidelines; and includes nine not-too-difficult, kid-appealing recipes--caramelized onion dip, black bean chili, breakfast bakes, kebabs, and more--with variations. Clear step-by-step directions include helpful color photos. There is some boilerplate repetition across the useful, accessible series. Glos., ind. [Review covers these Checkerboard How-to-Library: Cool Young Chefs titles: Cool Backyard Grilling, Cool Best-Ever Brunches, Cool Cooking Up Chili, and Cool Game Day Parties.] (c) Copyright 2014. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
