Salad People and More Real Recipes by Mollie Katzen

Salad People and More Real Recipes
by Mollie Katzen
(Preschool and up)

At our house, we are in the midst of holiday cooking and baking with Mom at the helm of the stove. My kitchen-loving son is always ready to stir, shake spices or lick spoons. I know, however, that he would love to lead the way through a recipe instead of just assist. We tried several kids cookbooks and found a series perfect for the preschool set. Mollie Katzen has lovingly created both Salad People and More Real Recipes and a companion book Pretend Soup and other Real Recipes as "first cookbooks." Each step is beautifully illustrated so that even pre-readers can act as head cook. The food is simple, healthy and meatless. Kids can contribute to family meals with dishes like Sweet Potato Surprise, Corny Corn Cakes, Counting Soup, Polka Dot Rice and Salad People made from cheese, fruit, veggies and pasta.

My son loved the introductory quotes from the preschool class that tested each dish included with the recipes (i.e. "I hear the bubbles! I can hear bubbling!"). He also learned a little about measurement along the way. Grown-ups can follow along in traditional recipe format with tips for success. Happy cooking!

Older kids (ages eight and up) may enjoy Katzen's cookbook, Honest Pretzels And Other Amazing Recipes for Cooks Ages 8 & Up.

To find this book in our library, visit http://www.newberglibrary.org/.

Reviewed by Amanda L., Children's Staff