A seminal work, ahead of its time in scope and erudition. Quite well written too. Not to be mistaken for French Country Cooking, which is markedly inferior. ( )

Another delightful book. Her actual cookery books really are like taking a vacation. ( )

I first came across Elizabeth David's writings on food in the 1960s as my mother had several of her books. This is the first one I bought for myself after I had left home. It is a classic, what more can I say. A joy to read, it is so much more than a recipe book, she introduces you to a way of thinking about food and its preparation, the techniques and tools you need and why you need them. I think that if I had a "Desert Island Cookbook" challenge, this is the one I would take, you could use it for ever. ( )

I learned so much watching my mother translate Elizabeth David into home cooking. Later I used her to simplify my own approach and excite other's taste.. ( )

a most beautiful book that will never get anywhere near my kitchen (replaces my ancient penguin paperback) ( )