In this outstanding guide to the world of cookbooks for the avid collector, Barile presents an in-depth history of cookbooks from early Rome to modern America. She points out notable titles from each era and the social significance to be discovered in cookbooks. Barile also discusses the impact of modern-day appliances and convenience foods upon cookbooks. Stressing what is currently collectible and what might be in the future, she meticulously describes various categories of cookbooks: fundraising, historical, minority and ethnic, appliance, restaurant/hotel, and home canning and freezing. Barile does not ignore ephemera in her collecting strategy, stating that it is quite often overlooked and undervalued by dealers and collectors alike. Included in her text are a price guide, cookbook time line, conversion tables for old measurements, source list, and a directory of American cookbook libraries. An invaluable resource for culinary bibliophiles.
- Michael A. Lutes, Univ. of Notre Dame Lib., Ind.Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Reader Reviews
As a new collector of cookbooks, this is one of my favorite reference books. The historical information found in this book is fascinating and helps the reader understand the significance of cookbooks as a window to the past. It also helps explain why some are valued as highly as they are. The 1993 copyright did not detract, since values tend to be relative, and this book gives a good feel for evaluating a collection. Unlike an earlier reviewer, I did not find the shortened listings in the last section of the book to be a problem. I was able to find a surprising number of cookbooks I've acquired in this book that are not in the 3 others I have. Also, cookbooks are listed alphabetically by title, the absolute simplest reference arrangement I've found...no jumping around in categories is required. I'd highly recommend this one!
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