Bevelyn Blair's Everyday Pies: The Ultimate Workday, Weekend, and Special Occasion Pie Book

Over the years cookbooks have evolved from mere collections of recipes to works of art replete with photographs and the colorful ramblings of the authors. This book harkens back to the former. It is a comprehensive collection of pie recipes, nothing more, nothing less. There are neither photos nor charming anecdotes nor historical notes. The collection of recipes is extensive and the ones I've tried (pineapple meringue, lemon grand meringue and a number of the angel pies) have been satisfactory. However, the instructions are skimpy and an inexperienced baker might find this less than acceptable. If you are tired of the chitchat and art and want recipes plain and simple, this is the book for you. However, if you have been spoiled by the luxurious tomes with their lush photographs and detailed directions, you will probably be disappointed by this offering.

I fell in love with Ms. Blair's recipes in her book, "Everyday Cakes". Short, to the point, and real prize-winners, every one I've done. I found the same with this book. Like the prior reviewer, what is truly appreciated is that they WORK! I've bought so many cookbooks that either waste a ton of time with peripheral stuff or pretty photos, but then can't deliver the goods when it comes time to actually cook out of them! You needn't worry with Ms. Blair's work. It does help if you know basic cooking techniques simply because the recipes are quite brief on those. What happened to her cookie book? I'd love to get a copy. This, along with her cake book, is a real primer for dessert-minded cooks.

I am fortunate enough to know Bevelyn personally and to have sampled many of her cakes, pies and other delights. So I speak from experience when I say that not only are the results wonderful, her recipes WORK! I can't recommend this book, or the companion books Everyday Cakes and Everyday Cookies, too highly! You won't be disappointed.