VENTURESOME VEGAN COOKING - JM & MICHELLE HIRSCH

RATING: C

Although there are more recipes in this book than the last few I have read, once again, there are very few that personally appeal. Predominantly, I find a lot of white flour, whereas I ONLY use wholemeal organic or gram flours, and many recipes call for tofu or canned beans - whereas I prefer not to use tofu/soy products very often and only to use real beans rather than canned.

I was hoping for some vegan ideas, but there are only a couple recipes I might adapt. I would recommend the book to anyone starting out to explore vegan recipes - but would add that if you don't eat canned foods or soy/tofu, it might be better to try another book.

HOW TO BE COMPASSIONATE – HHDL

RATING: B+

This is one of HHDL's helpful books. Whether you are curious as to what Buddhism might offer, or a current practitioner seeking further guidance, it can be useful to read such books as this one. Chapter 9 was especially helpful to me, reminding me of what I already knew and had worked with and taking me 'one step further' into what I had already learned and practiced. Page 71 especially stood out.

I would recommend this book to everyone that wants to improve both their own life and that of others and to receive guidance and help with doing so.

QUICK AND EASY INDIAN SIMPLE VEGETARIAN - EDITOR: NEETA JATTA

RATING: C-

Another not-so-good Indian recipe book. There are only a few recipes in here, and once again, most contain ingredients I either do not eat or cannot obtain.

Another book I would recommend to those wanting to try out a few Indian recipes - before indulging in a larger book if enjoyed - providing you do not have any heavy dietary preferences.