Library Journal Review

This is the most comprehensive of the gift books reviewed here, with over 100 recipes for a variety of gifts. Also covered are patterns for labels, reproducible tags, simple embroidery and sewing instructions, and other ideas for wrapping and presenting gifts. The foods include beverages, breads, candies and cookies, holiday treats, main dishes, jams and sauces, and snacks. These recipes, which use widely available ingredients and some prepared items like packaged mixes or purchased jams, are suitable for beginner cooks. There are original ideas for presentations and gift basket combinations. A trio of sauces-Apple-Spice, Chocolate Fudge, and Peanut Butter-would make for a delectable thank you, and holiday cookie exchanges will welcome Spiced Fruit Ravioli Cookies or clever Fishing Lure Cookies. The recipes are straightforward, and the book is generously illustrated with numerous hints and ideas. This user-friendly guide is a great pick for general collections. (c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.