Crescent Dragonwagon

This book is a 4.5 from me. More than a listing of recipes, Crescent Dragonwagon's writing style is conversational, personal, educational and informative. I've seen the strangest commentary from people who seem bewildered that a cookbook with the theme of beans included recipes for fresh string beans, that a vegetarian cookbook author's book about *beans* did not include more meat ("yet another vegetarian cookbook," he complains even though several of the *bean recipes* do include instructions for including meat), or that the recipes are "bland" despite including chile peppers, vinegars, handfuls of fresh herbs, and a number of condiments and sauces (harissa, chipotles in adobo sauce, mustard pickle) as ingredients.

This book was exactly what I was looking for in a bean-themed cookbook.… (more)

Jerry Pinkney is one of my favorite illustrators. His talent is incredible! And, this book is no exception to his stellar artistry. Coming upon a chimney, made of stone with flowers grown round, a young girl and her parents wonder who lived in the edifice during the years of history. The author allows the reader to journey with her as we imagine the people who sat on the porch singing Amazing Grace, as chicken is frying in the pan. Upstairs, a young girl is brushing her long hair. And as the day ends, the storm approaches to cool the night air. And, as the rain comes down, the thunder claps and the lightening is loud.

If you are interested, here is a link that highlights many of the books that Pinkney wrote, and/or illustrated:

https://www.google.com/search?source=univ&tbm=isch&q=Home+Place,+Jerry+P....… (more)