Spoonbread and Strawberry Wine

I received this book in paperback it came with a price sticker on the front cover of .25. I paid much more. I felt duped.

My book is old and literally falling apart because whenever I reach for it to get a recipe, I end up down nostalgia lane as I get lost (again) in the lives of this incredibly beautiful family. It is my very favorite cookbook, and I have a large collection of very good cookbooks. The recipes are true vintage soul food at its finest. It will help establish you as a cook who takes second place to NOBODY. You hear me?

I am so tired of cooking something out of this book and then have people try and steal it! :-) Honestly I ran across "Spoonbread and Strawberry Wine" many years ago when it was a paperback bought several copies as X-MAS presents. It's X-MAS time again and I getting ready to order several more... I still have my original paperback torn and tattered from use but it's the ONLY one I'll use when it comes to soul food.... EVERY recipe I have used has been off the chain.... from mac and chesse to pig feet it is ALL GOOD! **** This book also reflects the pride and love of a family for not only food but also for one another... the autobiographical features on family members will make you reflect on your own family.... very touching.... "Spoonbread" is truly a labor of love for food and especially FAMILY!

I've just ordered my third copy of this book, having worn out two little paperbacks. I bought my first copy many years ago and was captivated. This cookbook is a perfect blend of memories and recipies--one doesn't overpower the other. I've cooked most of the recipes in the book, and their cornbread recipe has become my standard for home and 'pot luck'. I've bought many copies of this book for gifts. Mine have been worn out from loaning to friends. A great achievement on the part of the writers. A book to keep.

Spoonbread and Strawberry Wine's mostly excellent recipes have delighted my family for more than fourteen years. Many of the recipes, such as the like-no-other macaroni and cheese, banana pudding, and pineapple upside-down cupcakes have become "my" standards. This book, along with a basic Betty Crocker cookbook, taught me how to cook. A must-have for anyone wanting to serve hot, nourishing meals that keep everyone coming home!

I first came across the cookbook when I checked it out at my local library in Salinas, CA many years ago. It was the first cookbook that I had ever come across of it's kind. About three years ago I came across it again in an Afrocentric bookstore in Chicago and the memories I had of reading the family memories and testing the recipies came rushing back! I immediately bought one for myself this time. Since then, I have given it as gifts to several of my own family members and I am teaching my own children to make delicious food from the book. Now, I can proudly say that my sweet potatoe pie is to "live for" and is much requested by family & friends. Even more important than the recipies is the passing on of a rich family legacy and a perfect example of what a loving, supportive, strong family life is all about. "Spoonbread" relives the African American experience of yesteryear. One, which should not be forgotten.