What a deliciously attractive way to put together a cookbook! Not only are the recipes calling me to try them, but the stories and poems make the book so personal. In addition, there are tips with the recipes, telling how to make them with as little angst as possible--good for those of us who need literal directions. But there's more: a page of writing prompts is included (for instance, remembering your favorite food and where you first experienced it), so we can all put our own stories and recipes together.

Having been brought up in the city, I love hearing about how others grew up. Many of the stories also gave me insight into other cultures.

There are so many good reasons to read this book. Some of my favorites are: Sally Lunn Bread and the tale of the bread-dough-eating Irish setter; Carrie's Date Nut Bread and her Grandmother's secret recipe; Linda Wisniewski's pierogi and remembering her ancestry; Grandma Lilly's Molasses Cookies and the Great Depression; and of course, Chocolate Soufflé.

The Story Circle Network has created a unique way of blending family lore with food and giving us something for everyone. This would be an ideal gift for family and friends. Or maybe you could start your own story/recipe collection. It's a great conversation piece.

Book review by Doris Anne Roop-Benner, reprinted with permission from www.storycirclebookreviews.org