The last lecture Randy Pausch gave - “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams” - was about the importance of overcoming obstacles, of enabling the dreams of others, of seizing every moment (because “time is all you have…and you may find one day that you have less than you think”).

“Finding Betty Crocker” gives us this astonishing inside look into the world of America’s favorite homemaker. Susan Marks guides us through the various faces and voices behind Betty Crocker’s iconic image, starting in the 1920’s and bringing us into the modern age where celebrity chefs and their cookbooks share the shelf with Betty.

Deceptively Delicious is filled with traditional recipes that kids love, except they’re stealthily packed with veggies so kids don’t even know! She also provides revealing and humorous personal anecdotes, tear–out shopping guides to help parents zoom through the supermarket, and tips on how to deal with the kid that “must have” the latest sugar bomb cereal.

This book by Harold McGee is a must-have for anyone who is interested in the science, history, and lore of food. Harold presents us with the ultimate reference book that is beautifully written and fun to read! Harold presents us with the ultimate reference book that is beautifully written and fun to read! He covers everything from the evolution of beer to how to on mixing a proper vinaigrette.

At first glance, it appears to be just a parody of a dated entertaining guide, however Amy actually provides us with real, tasty - albeit quirky - recipes from the 70’s that bring back plenty of memories for me. I watched Aunts, Uncles, and friends show up at family functions with plates of classic all-American wonders!

A great summer read, but an even better travel read, her tales of dark-eyed men, wise gurus, and breathtaking sites will have you grinning. Did she leave anything out? Certainly not the tongue and cheek humor of a smart and happening lady who has experienced tough times yet loved deeply.

Is it really so important to be nice? Linda and Robin share the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ of success. You’ll love their inspirational personal stories, surprising research from famous physiologists and socialists, and the use of plain common sense - their trademark.

Lorna Sass has written an exciting book on grains that will appeal to anyone, meat-eating, vegetarian, vegan. Ideal for the home cook who wants to learn more about whole grains, its easy, time-saving recipes will become a valued resource in your kitchen.