I adore this cookbook. It just evokes wonderful feelings to page through it. (Among other things, it made me aware of Central Asia for pretty much the first time in my life.) I've cooked quite a number of recipes from it. I've actually found them a little unreliable, especially the bread ones, and have learned to be cautious making them so I don't end up with runny dough because I added all the water they suggested. But some items are really stellar: the Ethiopian spice bread, the sunflower seed bread, the chicken and fenugreek stew... the one I've made most is the chickpea and onion stew, incredibly simple but so very good. This book is what made me overcome my hesitations about non-loaf breads and cook up flatbreads as just a normal part of a meal. ( )

Wonderful recipes, wonderful stories, wonderful pictures. I don't think 5 stars are enough. If there is one disadvantage it is that it is too big and heavy to cart around, or even to fit on the counter in my tiny kitchen. I use it frequently. ( )

A travelogue, really. Has many interesting recipes, both for breads and for things to eat with bread. ( )

Possibly my very favorite cookbook. The recipes are simple but evocative, with travel essays and photographs to help you envision the land and the culture the food comes from. And the breads and side dishes are great, too.

I have to admit that I am not much of a bread baker, but after buying over 700 cookbooks, I now look for a book that is more than just basic recipes. I have had this book for a while, but in an effort to get more out my collection I have asked my husband to pick out one book every other week for me to peruse. This is this week's book. ( )