A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

Cookbook, 07 Dec 2007
A truly excellent cookbook. the step by step pictures at the bottom of each page really help children to understand what to do. perfect for children of any age. this book is especially good as a child who has little reading skill will easily be able to follow the recipe with little guidence due to the pictures. the recipes in the book are fantastic and i would recommend it to anybody looking for a cookbook not only for children but for adults looking for simple recipes with simple instructions.

Easy, tasty recipes, 20 Feb 2007
This a fantastic introduction to cooking for kids. The instructions are clear and easy to follow with helpful illustrations at every stage.
Every recipe we've tried so far has worked perfectly. We have already made Cheese and potato pasties (addictive), Barbecue chicken (delicious) and the Chocolate cake (truly divine!)
A great way to spend time with the kids!


Real food made easy!, 15 Jan 2006
I bought this for my son and daughter aged 8 and 11. They have several cookbooks but this is by far the best. Each step of each recipe is clearly illustrated, and everything is so well laid out that the children can understand and DO everything themselves. So far we've had lamb kebabs with couscous (delicious), some very moreish cheese and potato pasties, strawberry shortbread and a chocolate cake any chef would be proud of. I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to get a cookery book for a child, and the recipes are so up to date and delicious that it could even grace the bookshelf of any adult just beginning to cook for themselves (and their mates!!).

Great book for Adult Pre-Entry/ Basic Skills Cookery, 12 Jan 2006
This book is really well laid out for adults who struggle with literacy, as well as children. The pictures are very clear (including itemised pictures of ingredients) and the recipes are well explained. Recommended!

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

Cookbook, 07 Dec 2007
A truly excellent cookbook. the step by step pictures at the bottom of each page really help children to understand what to do. perfect for children of any age. this book is especially good as a child who has little reading skill will easily be able to follow the recipe with little guidence due to the pictures. the recipes in the book are fantastic and i would recommend it to anybody looking for a cookbook not only for children but for adults looking for simple recipes with simple instructions.

Easy, tasty recipes, 20 Feb 2007
This a fantastic introduction to cooking for kids. The instructions are clear and easy to follow with helpful illustrations at every stage.
Every recipe we've tried so far has worked perfectly. We have already made Cheese and potato pasties (addictive), Barbecue chicken (delicious) and the Chocolate cake (truly divine!)
A great way to spend time with the kids!


Real food made easy!, 15 Jan 2006
I bought this for my son and daughter aged 8 and 11. They have several cookbooks but this is by far the best. Each step of each recipe is clearly illustrated, and everything is so well laid out that the children can understand and DO everything themselves. So far we've had lamb kebabs with couscous (delicious), some very moreish cheese and potato pasties, strawberry shortbread and a chocolate cake any chef would be proud of. I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to get a cookery book for a child, and the recipes are so up to date and delicious that it could even grace the bookshelf of any adult just beginning to cook for themselves (and their mates!!).

Great book for Adult Pre-Entry/ Basic Skills Cookery, 12 Jan 2006
This book is really well laid out for adults who struggle with literacy, as well as children. The pictures are very clear (including itemised pictures of ingredients) and the recipes are well explained. Recommended!

For younger readers, 29 Oct 2008
Too self consciously teen orientated for anyone over 13. The recipes are actually quite good, but for kids who are still cooking for fun, with parents paying the food bills.
I was after something for the reluctant cook, and this isn't it. However for a young Jamie Oliver wannabe, probably a good buy.

More food - less family please, 28 Jun 2008
There is something annoying about this young man, his relatives and his friends - just a bit too perfect like the Waltons - but you can't fault the recipes. We have used them constantly.


WHAT BOOK ARE THEY WRITING ABOUT?, 04 Apr 2008
I bought this book for my adult son after reading the reviews, it arrived this morning and I am left wondering just which books the other reviews are describing. The book has dozens of coloured photos, not of meals but of youngsters? The receipes are not set out clearly but with ingredients squashed into a column on the left side of the book. Clear they are not!
Sorry just can't find anything good to say about it, very disappointed and certainly not what I was expecting which was a book of plain simple straighforward recipes.



in my daughter's words "absolutely brilliant", 19 Jul 2007
I bought this for my 10 year old daughter who has always been interested in cooking but wanted to get a book that was just hers and not a "kids book". This book was right up her street- and because of the lay out and large type the print was really easy for her to understand (she is dyslexic and finds small print difficult to follow!). She has found lots of recipes to try and thinks it brilliant that there is a load of veggie stuff - so she can cook for me (being the only veggie in the house!!)- I also like that it encourages her just to try different things and to make her own dressings etc. The fact that it is split into time sections is great and shows just what can be done in very little time. Now to get my 7 year old son cooking...

Another decent cookbook for teenagers, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful. The recipes are clearly written in a large, unadorned font, without being patronising. Personally, I found some of the chatty comments a little cheesy and wondered if they would put my sons off as being uncool, but they did not mind at all.

The book is divided into time estimates for cooking, which I found less helpful. However, it did not seem to bother my boys, who were quite keen to know how long between starting to cook and food on the table.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

Delia Smith wrote How to Cook in 1998 in an attempt to teach cookery skills to adults who didn't know how to boil eggs properly. Mary Contini and Pru Irvine are attempting to prevent the problem by writing Easy Peasy, which is aimed at introducing children to the joy of cooking and eating well. "If you catch an adult reading this book," they write in the introduction, "be kind". "They may also want to learn to cook absolutely fabulous, incredibly simple and gorgeous food." They reckon that cooking is a life skill and that once you know the basics you can survive anywhere. And if children have time to watch television, they have enough time to learn a skill which will serve them well throughout their life. Easy Peasy explains how to cut and peel various types of fruit and vegetables. Photographs show various kitchen appliances, including basics such as whisks, tea strainers and ladles. The book is divided into recipes using potatoes, eggs, pasta and bread. There are also recipes for soups and cakes. All the recipes, like Gold Fish Cakes and Greece Salad, are aimed at offering some amusement. However, it's likely that Chocolate Mouse will be more popular than garlic-laced Knock-out Bread.

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

Cookbook, 07 Dec 2007
A truly excellent cookbook. the step by step pictures at the bottom of each page really help children to understand what to do. perfect for children of any age. this book is especially good as a child who has little reading skill will easily be able to follow the recipe with little guidence due to the pictures. the recipes in the book are fantastic and i would recommend it to anybody looking for a cookbook not only for children but for adults looking for simple recipes with simple instructions.

Easy, tasty recipes, 20 Feb 2007
This a fantastic introduction to cooking for kids. The instructions are clear and easy to follow with helpful illustrations at every stage.
Every recipe we've tried so far has worked perfectly. We have already made Cheese and potato pasties (addictive), Barbecue chicken (delicious) and the Chocolate cake (truly divine!)
A great way to spend time with the kids!


Real food made easy!, 15 Jan 2006
I bought this for my son and daughter aged 8 and 11. They have several cookbooks but this is by far the best. Each step of each recipe is clearly illustrated, and everything is so well laid out that the children can understand and DO everything themselves. So far we've had lamb kebabs with couscous (delicious), some very moreish cheese and potato pasties, strawberry shortbread and a chocolate cake any chef would be proud of. I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to get a cookery book for a child, and the recipes are so up to date and delicious that it could even grace the bookshelf of any adult just beginning to cook for themselves (and their mates!!).

Great book for Adult Pre-Entry/ Basic Skills Cookery, 12 Jan 2006
This book is really well laid out for adults who struggle with literacy, as well as children. The pictures are very clear (including itemised pictures of ingredients) and the recipes are well explained. Recommended!

For younger readers, 29 Oct 2008
Too self consciously teen orientated for anyone over 13. The recipes are actually quite good, but for kids who are still cooking for fun, with parents paying the food bills.
I was after something for the reluctant cook, and this isn't it. However for a young Jamie Oliver wannabe, probably a good buy.

More food - less family please, 28 Jun 2008
There is something annoying about this young man, his relatives and his friends - just a bit too perfect like the Waltons - but you can't fault the recipes. We have used them constantly.


WHAT BOOK ARE THEY WRITING ABOUT?, 04 Apr 2008
I bought this book for my adult son after reading the reviews, it arrived this morning and I am left wondering just which books the other reviews are describing. The book has dozens of coloured photos, not of meals but of youngsters? The receipes are not set out clearly but with ingredients squashed into a column on the left side of the book. Clear they are not!
Sorry just can't find anything good to say about it, very disappointed and certainly not what I was expecting which was a book of plain simple straighforward recipes.



in my daughter's words "absolutely brilliant", 19 Jul 2007
I bought this for my 10 year old daughter who has always been interested in cooking but wanted to get a book that was just hers and not a "kids book". This book was right up her street- and because of the lay out and large type the print was really easy for her to understand (she is dyslexic and finds small print difficult to follow!). She has found lots of recipes to try and thinks it brilliant that there is a load of veggie stuff - so she can cook for me (being the only veggie in the house!!)- I also like that it encourages her just to try different things and to make her own dressings etc. The fact that it is split into time sections is great and shows just what can be done in very little time. Now to get my 7 year old son cooking...

Another decent cookbook for teenagers, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful. The recipes are clearly written in a large, unadorned font, without being patronising. Personally, I found some of the chatty comments a little cheesy and wondered if they would put my sons off as being uncool, but they did not mind at all.

The book is divided into time estimates for cooking, which I found less helpful. However, it did not seem to bother my boys, who were quite keen to know how long between starting to cook and food on the table.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all


excellent book fo adults!!, 05 Feb 2004
This book is brilliant! I am 22 and have no children but i did'nt have a clue on how to cook!! This book tells you all the basics including how to cook potatoes! This is much better than some adult books because it relays all the simple things of cooking which many adult books take for granted that we know. Excellent book and I'm sure it's very good for children as well!!!!

I think it inspires a lot of children. It is easy to follow, 08 Jun 1999
I think that Easy Peasy for kids by Mary Contini and Pru Irvine is a great opportunity for kids that want to cook and eat good food.

This book is really easy to understand and has got great recipes too.

Most childrens' menus are stuffed to the brim with absolute junk food.

I think that children also want to be independent for some things.

So this book has really made a difference in my life. Let it make one in yours!

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

Cookbook, 07 Dec 2007
A truly excellent cookbook. the step by step pictures at the bottom of each page really help children to understand what to do. perfect for children of any age. this book is especially good as a child who has little reading skill will easily be able to follow the recipe with little guidence due to the pictures. the recipes in the book are fantastic and i would recommend it to anybody looking for a cookbook not only for children but for adults looking for simple recipes with simple instructions.

Easy, tasty recipes, 20 Feb 2007
This a fantastic introduction to cooking for kids. The instructions are clear and easy to follow with helpful illustrations at every stage.
Every recipe we've tried so far has worked perfectly. We have already made Cheese and potato pasties (addictive), Barbecue chicken (delicious) and the Chocolate cake (truly divine!)
A great way to spend time with the kids!


Real food made easy!, 15 Jan 2006
I bought this for my son and daughter aged 8 and 11. They have several cookbooks but this is by far the best. Each step of each recipe is clearly illustrated, and everything is so well laid out that the children can understand and DO everything themselves. So far we've had lamb kebabs with couscous (delicious), some very moreish cheese and potato pasties, strawberry shortbread and a chocolate cake any chef would be proud of. I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to get a cookery book for a child, and the recipes are so up to date and delicious that it could even grace the bookshelf of any adult just beginning to cook for themselves (and their mates!!).

Great book for Adult Pre-Entry/ Basic Skills Cookery, 12 Jan 2006
This book is really well laid out for adults who struggle with literacy, as well as children. The pictures are very clear (including itemised pictures of ingredients) and the recipes are well explained. Recommended!

For younger readers, 29 Oct 2008
Too self consciously teen orientated for anyone over 13. The recipes are actually quite good, but for kids who are still cooking for fun, with parents paying the food bills.
I was after something for the reluctant cook, and this isn't it. However for a young Jamie Oliver wannabe, probably a good buy.

More food - less family please, 28 Jun 2008
There is something annoying about this young man, his relatives and his friends - just a bit too perfect like the Waltons - but you can't fault the recipes. We have used them constantly.


WHAT BOOK ARE THEY WRITING ABOUT?, 04 Apr 2008
I bought this book for my adult son after reading the reviews, it arrived this morning and I am left wondering just which books the other reviews are describing. The book has dozens of coloured photos, not of meals but of youngsters? The receipes are not set out clearly but with ingredients squashed into a column on the left side of the book. Clear they are not!
Sorry just can't find anything good to say about it, very disappointed and certainly not what I was expecting which was a book of plain simple straighforward recipes.



in my daughter's words "absolutely brilliant", 19 Jul 2007
I bought this for my 10 year old daughter who has always been interested in cooking but wanted to get a book that was just hers and not a "kids book". This book was right up her street- and because of the lay out and large type the print was really easy for her to understand (she is dyslexic and finds small print difficult to follow!). She has found lots of recipes to try and thinks it brilliant that there is a load of veggie stuff - so she can cook for me (being the only veggie in the house!!)- I also like that it encourages her just to try different things and to make her own dressings etc. The fact that it is split into time sections is great and shows just what can be done in very little time. Now to get my 7 year old son cooking...

Another decent cookbook for teenagers, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful. The recipes are clearly written in a large, unadorned font, without being patronising. Personally, I found some of the chatty comments a little cheesy and wondered if they would put my sons off as being uncool, but they did not mind at all.

The book is divided into time estimates for cooking, which I found less helpful. However, it did not seem to bother my boys, who were quite keen to know how long between starting to cook and food on the table.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all


excellent book fo adults!!, 05 Feb 2004
This book is brilliant! I am 22 and have no children but i did'nt have a clue on how to cook!! This book tells you all the basics including how to cook potatoes! This is much better than some adult books because it relays all the simple things of cooking which many adult books take for granted that we know. Excellent book and I'm sure it's very good for children as well!!!!

I think it inspires a lot of children. It is easy to follow, 08 Jun 1999
I think that Easy Peasy for kids by Mary Contini and Pru Irvine is a great opportunity for kids that want to cook and eat good food.

This book is really easy to understand and has got great recipes too.

Most childrens' menus are stuffed to the brim with absolute junk food.

I think that children also want to be independent for some things.

So this book has really made a difference in my life. Let it make one in yours!

Better for yonger kids, 14 Sep 2008
Although keen on cooking, my 9 year old was underwhelmed by this book. Many of the recipes are too simple - fine for 5 year olds maybe but probably insufficiently challenging for older kids - but of course it all depends on your child's existing level of skill and enthusiasm.

Great fun for kids and parents, 30 Jul 2004
My daughter (7) brought this home from school and we couldn't wait to try the recipes. The illustrations are excellent (aren't DK's always), the recipes are simple enough for the children to do but challenging enough to make it worthwhile. We made the animal bread shapes and thoroughly enjoyed making and eating them.

Really good for all ages, 20 Jan 2004
We found this book in the library and my mum thought it looked quite interesting so we borrowed it. My brother and I found the recipes really easy to follow and all the ones we have tried so far have worked (he is 11 and I am 13). However, I think a five year old could follow the simple steps. There is a photograph of each ingredient at the beginning of the recipe, along with a photo for each step so you can see exactly what to use and what to do. My mum also thinks she could use it as she really likes the way it's explained simply and it has real recipes like pasta, pies etc. along with biscuits and little snacks which are the only things you find in most children's cookery books. We liked it so much we have just ordered it off the site. I would recommend it to anyone.

easy to make recipes, 23 Jan 2002
i bought this book for my children aged 12-18 and
they enjoyed making the different recipes,as they were easy to do and the photographs helped aswell.

Bought for a 5yr old loved by an adult, 20 Aug 2001
I bought this book for my 5 yr old son who likes to cook one glance through the recipes and photographs and I was more eager than he was.The recipes are easy to follow and the step by step photographs reassure you that you are doing the right thing. From hamburgers to gingerbread men this book makes them all seem easy to make. So go on indulge yourself and your children and buy this book Delia eat your heart out.

The Kid's First Cook Book would make an excellent introduction to cooking for any child. It is full of easy-to-follow recipes for delicious things to eat. The contents page is followed by detailed information about how to use the book and a set of useful rules for cooks.

Each recipe is extremely well laid out, making it very easy for any child to follow. Each recipe follows the same format with a short introduction, life-size photographs of the ingredients, pictures of the cooks tools and finally a step by step What To Do section which takes you through the making process, also with photographs to illustrate each stage.

A very useful cook book for every day cooking, but there are also great ideas for adapting recipes for special occasions, for example, little cakes are turned into funny faces, cakes are turned into an Easter cake and a dinosaur, speedy pizzas are turned into party pizzas etc.

Kid's First Cook Book would be a fantastic introduction to recipe books for a young child working with an adult or for older children to use with more independence. Therefore, this book would be suitable for 4-11 year olds. --Amanda York

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

Cookbook, 07 Dec 2007
A truly excellent cookbook. the step by step pictures at the bottom of each page really help children to understand what to do. perfect for children of any age. this book is especially good as a child who has little reading skill will easily be able to follow the recipe with little guidence due to the pictures. the recipes in the book are fantastic and i would recommend it to anybody looking for a cookbook not only for children but for adults looking for simple recipes with simple instructions.

Easy, tasty recipes, 20 Feb 2007
This a fantastic introduction to cooking for kids. The instructions are clear and easy to follow with helpful illustrations at every stage.
Every recipe we've tried so far has worked perfectly. We have already made Cheese and potato pasties (addictive), Barbecue chicken (delicious) and the Chocolate cake (truly divine!)
A great way to spend time with the kids!


Real food made easy!, 15 Jan 2006
I bought this for my son and daughter aged 8 and 11. They have several cookbooks but this is by far the best. Each step of each recipe is clearly illustrated, and everything is so well laid out that the children can understand and DO everything themselves. So far we've had lamb kebabs with couscous (delicious), some very moreish cheese and potato pasties, strawberry shortbread and a chocolate cake any chef would be proud of. I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to get a cookery book for a child, and the recipes are so up to date and delicious that it could even grace the bookshelf of any adult just beginning to cook for themselves (and their mates!!).

Great book for Adult Pre-Entry/ Basic Skills Cookery, 12 Jan 2006
This book is really well laid out for adults who struggle with literacy, as well as children. The pictures are very clear (including itemised pictures of ingredients) and the recipes are well explained. Recommended!

For younger readers, 29 Oct 2008
Too self consciously teen orientated for anyone over 13. The recipes are actually quite good, but for kids who are still cooking for fun, with parents paying the food bills.
I was after something for the reluctant cook, and this isn't it. However for a young Jamie Oliver wannabe, probably a good buy.

More food - less family please, 28 Jun 2008
There is something annoying about this young man, his relatives and his friends - just a bit too perfect like the Waltons - but you can't fault the recipes. We have used them constantly.


WHAT BOOK ARE THEY WRITING ABOUT?, 04 Apr 2008
I bought this book for my adult son after reading the reviews, it arrived this morning and I am left wondering just which books the other reviews are describing. The book has dozens of coloured photos, not of meals but of youngsters? The receipes are not set out clearly but with ingredients squashed into a column on the left side of the book. Clear they are not!
Sorry just can't find anything good to say about it, very disappointed and certainly not what I was expecting which was a book of plain simple straighforward recipes.



in my daughter's words "absolutely brilliant", 19 Jul 2007
I bought this for my 10 year old daughter who has always been interested in cooking but wanted to get a book that was just hers and not a "kids book". This book was right up her street- and because of the lay out and large type the print was really easy for her to understand (she is dyslexic and finds small print difficult to follow!). She has found lots of recipes to try and thinks it brilliant that there is a load of veggie stuff - so she can cook for me (being the only veggie in the house!!)- I also like that it encourages her just to try different things and to make her own dressings etc. The fact that it is split into time sections is great and shows just what can be done in very little time. Now to get my 7 year old son cooking...

Another decent cookbook for teenagers, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful. The recipes are clearly written in a large, unadorned font, without being patronising. Personally, I found some of the chatty comments a little cheesy and wondered if they would put my sons off as being uncool, but they did not mind at all.

The book is divided into time estimates for cooking, which I found less helpful. However, it did not seem to bother my boys, who were quite keen to know how long between starting to cook and food on the table.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all


excellent book fo adults!!, 05 Feb 2004
This book is brilliant! I am 22 and have no children but i did'nt have a clue on how to cook!! This book tells you all the basics including how to cook potatoes! This is much better than some adult books because it relays all the simple things of cooking which many adult books take for granted that we know. Excellent book and I'm sure it's very good for children as well!!!!

I think it inspires a lot of children. It is easy to follow, 08 Jun 1999
I think that Easy Peasy for kids by Mary Contini and Pru Irvine is a great opportunity for kids that want to cook and eat good food.

This book is really easy to understand and has got great recipes too.

Most childrens' menus are stuffed to the brim with absolute junk food.

I think that children also want to be independent for some things.

So this book has really made a difference in my life. Let it make one in yours!

Better for yonger kids, 14 Sep 2008
Although keen on cooking, my 9 year old was underwhelmed by this book. Many of the recipes are too simple - fine for 5 year olds maybe but probably insufficiently challenging for older kids - but of course it all depends on your child's existing level of skill and enthusiasm.

Great fun for kids and parents, 30 Jul 2004
My daughter (7) brought this home from school and we couldn't wait to try the recipes. The illustrations are excellent (aren't DK's always), the recipes are simple enough for the children to do but challenging enough to make it worthwhile. We made the animal bread shapes and thoroughly enjoyed making and eating them.

Really good for all ages, 20 Jan 2004
We found this book in the library and my mum thought it looked quite interesting so we borrowed it. My brother and I found the recipes really easy to follow and all the ones we have tried so far have worked (he is 11 and I am 13). However, I think a five year old could follow the simple steps. There is a photograph of each ingredient at the beginning of the recipe, along with a photo for each step so you can see exactly what to use and what to do. My mum also thinks she could use it as she really likes the way it's explained simply and it has real recipes like pasta, pies etc. along with biscuits and little snacks which are the only things you find in most children's cookery books. We liked it so much we have just ordered it off the site. I would recommend it to anyone.

easy to make recipes, 23 Jan 2002
i bought this book for my children aged 12-18 and
they enjoyed making the different recipes,as they were easy to do and the photographs helped aswell.

Bought for a 5yr old loved by an adult, 20 Aug 2001
I bought this book for my 5 yr old son who likes to cook one glance through the recipes and photographs and I was more eager than he was.The recipes are easy to follow and the step by step photographs reassure you that you are doing the right thing. From hamburgers to gingerbread men this book makes them all seem easy to make. So go on indulge yourself and your children and buy this book Delia eat your heart out.

great kids book, 21 Jul 2008
Great kids book with wonderful ideas to keep the kids busy and creative with food.

Fantastic! Real 4-6yr+ old first cookery book., 24 Oct 2005
I recently purchased this and another 'first' cookery book. I have a 4 3/4 yr old and a 6 1/4 yr old and this book is pitched at exactly the right level. It is far more appropriate to this age group than the other one which seems to be aimed at children around about 8 years of age.

Kid's First Cook Book (DK Kids First) is simply explained, clearly illustrated and hits the right interest level. I will be buying this as a gift for anyone we know (between 4 and 8!!!).

kids first cook book, 07 Nov 2004
This is a fantastic book. I work in a day nursery where we cook a lot and this book is fab. It has some execellent recipes in and easy step by step photos to help you on your way.
A must for all parents

Lovely to look at., 21 Jan 2002
Well presented ,easy to follow,big pictures get the kids interested in the end product as well as the method .

A book for all ages, 17 Nov 2000
This beautifully presented book can be used with children of all ages, and for many purposes.

I use it as a picture book with my one year old and as a first cookery book for my two year-old's first cookery! My 7 year old nephew practices reading, maths and measuring....and all while having fun!

The life size pictures and step by step instructions are great fun to read and do.

Some recipes are basic and offer the opportunity to build on the basics to make more sophisticated eats for older children. It also makes a lovely present and I would receommend it to anyone who wants to share valuable time having fun with young people.

Do restaurant menus featuring full-colour food photos kick your salivary glands into high gear? Angela Wilkes's inviting, heavily illustrated cookbook offers the same satisfaction of seeing exactly what you're going to get--along with the ensuing hunger pangs. Children can follow each recipe step by step, with photographs that show what you're supposed to do, how to do it, and when. Thankfully, the 60 recipes are appealing dishes the whole family will want to eat, from Salade Nicoise and Filled Crepes to the more basic Tacos and Guacamole and Spicy Chicken Burgers. The chapters include: "Before You Start", "Kitchen Rules", "Super-Fast Snacks" (Cheater's Pizzas, Crunchy Crostini, Fruit Smoothies), "Speedy Meals" (Classic Omelettes, Vegetable Soups, Chicken Curry and Rice); "Delightful Desserts" (Lemon Cheesecake, Fruit Crumble, Tiramisu), "Treats and Sweets" (Oat Bars, Chocolate Dips, Macaroons), "Picture Glossary" (Grilling, Stir-Frying, Marinating) and a helpful index. The book provides quantities of ingredients in both imperial and metric measurements and clearly organizes the ingredients lists. The overall effect is dazzling--youngsters will find themselves right at home in the kitchen, whipping up simple or elaborate dishes with confidence and glee. (Ages 9 to 12)

A cookbook that my sons use, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful.

These are not groundbreaking recipes, or even the best renditions of well-known dishes, but they work fine, are well illustrated and introduce young cooks to a range of techniques in a very straightforward, jargon free way.

There are also (from my point of view) helpful comments on diet and nutrition, delivered in a very matter of fact way.

Impressive all in all

My son cooks from this, 03 Mar 2007
I gave this to my 13-year-old son for Christmas and he has cooked various recipes from it. He is quite enthusiastic about it. The 'cool' factor of the book makes, I think, all the difference, and the fact that it's explicitly addressed to boys. The recipes are fairly traditional -- which is fine for those boys who are less adventurous. Highly recommended.

Some good ideas, but...., 29 Dec 2006
Okay, this book has great recipes and great results. It is easy to compehend and understand and it is doing very well for itself. [...] Some of his vocabulary is appalling eg. "Plate it".It isn't cool. The style of the book is supposed to appeal to people of my age - 14 but I just found it annoying. [...] Basically, the recipes are great - tasty and simple (If some not a bit too simple - bread and olive oil...score) but the style is annoying to people of my age, perhaps it is better for pre-teens. Oh and another thing - the pictures are cheesey [...]. [...]. Caps were so four years ago....

Buy it!, 03 Sep 2006
Having seen this book reviewed in the newspapers and on TV I decided that I would buy it for my kids (aged 9 and 14) for the summer holidays. And boy am I glad I did! They have spent the last few weeks trying out loads of recipes from the book, from full-on family meals to cakes, biscuits and smoothies. Not only has it kept them entertained for hours, but they are now confident in the kitchen. And most of the recipes are healthy as well (with the odd nice treat) so it's guilt-free. I heard that Sam Stern is bringing out another book this year - I'll definitely be buying it!

Excellent book - but this is the US version, 17 Aug 2006
When we first purchased the UK version of this book it inspired my teenage son to start cooking. The book was so well used that I ordered a replacement last week and unfortunately Amazon only now supply the US version, which gives everything in cup sizes rather than metric and has translated many food items which confuse UK kids (eg Zuchini rather than Courgettes). Buy the book - it's excellent, but search for the UK version if you live in the UK, don't take this (cheaper) US substitute

Sam Stern Do it again!, 23 Jun 2008
This book is one of the best ever, it features recipes that actually work (the corned beef hash is a regular.) The book has 8 chapters for every type of food. Tomatoes, Cheese, Pasta, Veg, Meat, Potatoes, Puddings (Chocolate) and Puddings (Other.) I've had plenty of dips into the book and still haven't tried a fraction of all the recipes. I now intend to get the other book (Cooking up a storm) as soon as I can.

On for the Christmas list, 27 Nov 2007
This is the third in the Sam Stern series of cookbooks. As a convert of the first two, I got hold of a copy to add to my collection. To my surprise, this book has quite a different feel from the last ones. Sam has definitely grown up and, although he still writes in a chatty and approachable way, this is a cookbook that will appeal more than the others to budding cooks of every age.
The chapters are divided up by ingredient, which makes it really easy to use (if you open your fridge and find yourself staring at a block of cheddar - head to the cheese chapter). The recipes are simple but sophisticated, and easy to follow (without huge lists of ingredients, which can be really off-putting). I know that my nephews have already knocked together some great dishes, and I have, too. Whether you're looking for a present for a student, teenage son/daughter or a useful and attractive cookbook for yourself, Get Cooking is highly recommended.

A Must Have Item, 10 Nov 2007
There are three cook books in the series written by Sam Stern. This latest book is fantastic. It delivers where other cook books fail to, great tasting food and interesting recipes that actually work. Rather than just making the food look good, this book enables you to make really tasty food.

It has a great layout and it is easy to understand and follow the instructions. It looks great and would be a great asset to any kitchen.

Its different to other cookbooks in that its written by a young cook with real passion for food. This is obvious from reding the text. This means that its a good book to read and will inspire young children and teenangers to cook. It also promotes healthy eating but in a way that is only possible because the author is a teenanger, so other teenangers may actually listen.

This would be a great idea for christmas for any kitchen and is a great way to get your teenangers cooking.

Another triumph, 03 Oct 2007
Having bought and really rated the previous 2 Sam Stern books, I made sure that the new one, Get Cooking, was delivered hot off the press as soon as it was available. I'm so pleased that I did - it does not disappoint. Sam has clearly grown up, and that's reflected in the book. Although it follows the same user-friendly layout and chatty tone, he has included some slightly more sophisticated recipes (along with lots of very useful basics). It's a book that should appeal to teen boys and girls alike who will relate to Sam and the group of friends who are photographed and quoted throughout. It's clear, concise and never patronising (and no long lists of ingredients either).

The book is divided up according to ingredient, from cheese to veg, via pasta, meat and potatoes and others. The cheese, chill and onion muffins and tangy tomato burgers have already gone down a treat in our house.

Whether you want to cook some great recipes yourself or would like to get your teens off the sofa and into the kitchen, this is the book for you.

Cookbook, 07 Dec 2007
A truly excellent cookbook. the step by step pictures at the bottom of each page really help children to understand what to do. perfect for children of any age. this book is especially good as a child who has little reading skill will easily be able to follow the recipe with little guidence due to the pictures. the recipes in the book are fantastic and i would recommend it to anybody looking for a cookbook not only for children but for adults looking for simple recipes with simple instructions.

Easy, tasty recipes, 20 Feb 2007
This a fantastic introduction to cooking for kids. The instructions are clear and easy to follow with helpful illustrations at every stage.
Every recipe we've tried so far has worked perfectly. We have already made Cheese and potato pasties (addictive), Barbecue chicken (delicious) and the Chocolate cake (truly divine!)
A great way to spend time with the kids!


Real food made easy!, 15 Jan 2006
I bought this for my son and daughter aged 8 and 11. They have several cookbooks but this is by far the best. Each step of each recipe is clearly illustrated, and everything is so well laid out that the children can understand and DO everything themselves. So far we've had lamb kebabs with couscous (delicious), some very moreish cheese and potato pasties, strawberry shortbread and a chocolate cake any chef would be proud of. I'd recommend this to anyone wanting to get a cookery book for a child, and the recipes are so up to date and delicious that it could even grace the bookshelf of any adult just beginning to cook for themselves (and their mates!!).

Great book for Adult Pre-Entry/ Basic Skills Cookery, 12 Jan 2006
This book is really well laid out for adults who struggle with literacy, as well as children. The pictures are very clear (including itemised pictures of ingredients) and the recipes are well explained. Recommended!

For younger readers, 29 Oct 2008
Too self consciously teen orientated for anyone over 13. The recipes are actually quite good, but for kids who are still cooking for fun, with parents paying the food bills.
I was after something for the reluctant cook, and this isn't it. However for a young Jamie Oliver wannabe, probably a good buy.

More food - less family please, 28 Jun 2008
There is something annoying about this young man, his relatives and his friends - just a bit too perfect like the Waltons - but you can't fault the recipes. We have used them constantly.


WHAT BOOK ARE THEY WRITING ABOUT?, 04 Apr 2008
I bought this book for my adult son after reading the reviews, it arrived this morning and I am left wondering just which books the other reviews are describing. The book has dozens of coloured photos, not of meals but of youngsters? The receipes are not set out clearly but with ingredients squashed into a column on the left side of the book. Clear they are not!
Sorry just can't find anything good to say about it, very disappointed and certainly not what I was expecting which was a book of plain simple straighforward recipes.



in my daughter's words "absolutely brilliant", 19 Jul 2007
I bought this for my 10 year old daughter who has always been interested in cooking but wanted to get a book that was just hers and not a "kids book". This book was right up her street- and because of the lay out and large type the print was really easy for her to understand (she is dyslexic and finds small print difficult to follow!). She has found lots of recipes to try and thinks it brilliant that there is a load of veggie stuff - so she can cook for me (being the only veggie in the house!!)- I also like that it encourages her just to try different things and to make her own dressings etc. The fact that it is split into time sections is great and shows just what can be done in very little time. Now to get my 7 year old son cooking...

Another decent cookbook for teenagers, 02 Jul 2007
I bought this cookbook for my 14 year old twin sons, who have always enjoyed cooking alongside me, but never attempted anything on their own before.

They both instantly loved this book, saw lots of things that they fancied cooking, but, unlike many other cookbooks, felt confident enough to give them a go.

My sons are very dyslexic, but they found the layout easy to follow and the pictures useful. The recipes are clearly written in a large, unadorned font, without being patronising. Personally, I found some of the chatty comments a little cheesy and wondered if they would put my sons off as being uncool, but they did not mind at all.

The book is divided into time estimates for cooking, which I found less helpful. However, it did not seem to bother my boys, who w