Get Cooking by Sam Stern

Bibliographic Information:
Stern, S., & Stern, S. (2009). Get cooking. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.


Plot Summary:
Known as the youngest cook in the UK, Sam Stern brings teens different recipes, from all over the world, that are not only elegant,but tasty and easy to make with little preparation. Stern provides aspiring cooks with a variety of recipes ranging from home made cheeses, soups, appetizers, main courses, desserts, drinks, and other snacks using common ingredients such as meat, potatoes, vegetables, and pasta. Moreover, he includes a section just for vegetarians and those with gluten allergies.

Each recipe includes large print instructions, which is great for multitasking. There is also a complete list of ingredients and serving sizes for each dish. There are colored pictures that give young cooks a visual as to how they can present their eats or add their own unique touches. Along with the recipes, there are informational boxes that provide additional tips and substitutes, which add flare to each dish.Lastly, there is a section called "Essential Extras" that show teens how to make basic items such as dressings, stocks, and doughs that most of these recipes could require or as an extra.

Critical Evaluation:
This particular cookbook is incredibly inspiring. Teens love to eat and to actually see a teen write a book about the food he loves is perfect. Along with the organization, the photos are the best part because everyone who is cooking can see professional products they can make on their own. Moreover, in comparison to traditional cookbooks, this one is more lax and tailored to those who are young and inexperienced. However, teens who love to experiment have plenty of opportunities to add to Sam's recipes since they are flexible enough. Another great aspect of this cookbook is the variety of the recipes, which will help teens expand their palates and try something different, but delicious. This work is very personal to Stern, which makes it that much more enjoyable. This cookbook is a must for teens who just want to eat good food.


Reader's Annotation:
Sam Stern, the U.K.'s youngest cook, presents more than 100 recipes for teens to cook on their own or with friends.

Information about the Author:
Sam Stern was born on August 29, 1990 in Yorkshire, England. As the youngest member of the family, Sam has many fond memories of cooking with his mother and it was her that taught him everything about cooking. According to Stern, when he is not in the kitchen, he is hanging out with friends, listening to music, eating, and finding a way to get to the North Pole (para.1). At the age of fourteen, Sam Stern published his first cookbook, Cooking Up a Storm, because he wanted to give his peers a cookbook filled with dishes that he, and his friends enjoy.

On his website, he has listed ten random facts that readers and cooks will enjoy:

1. I'm about 6 feet tall.
2. I would like to go to China.
3. I am addicted to Chinese food.
4. I am always up for a challenge.
5. I like all music.
6. I like football and going to the gym.
7. I wanted to be a vet or a fireman when I was a kid.
8. My favourite foods are chocolate mousse and roast chicken.
9. Some of my heroes include Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Keith Floyd and Gordon Ramsay.
10. I own a tortoise.

Genre:
Teen Nonfiction


Curriculum Tie-In's:
This cookbook would be amazing to use in Home Economics courses or teen cooking classes offered as an elective or outside of school.


Booktalking Ideas:
First of all, when promoting this title, I would ask potential readers if they like to cook. If not, I would ask why and then inform that anyone can cook as long as they have the right guide. Cooking is not as intimidating as well think, but with a little instruction, time, and fun teens can make a delicious meal for them and their friends.

Reading Level/Interest:
Grades 9 & up


Challenge Issues:
N/A


Books Similar to Sam Stern's Get Cooking:

• Teens Cook: How to Cook What You Want to Eat by Meghan Carle
• Teen Cuisine by Matthew Locricchio
  

Why did I choose this book?
With all of the hit reality television series focusing on cooking, teens finally have someone in their corner to help them become an active member in the culinary world. Not only is cooking fun, but it involves dedication, critical thinking, responsibility, and creativity. Teens who are looking for a challenge, or just love food, will not only enjoy this title, but they can practice and make dishes that will please the appetites and provide the cook with a sense of accomplishment. 

Awards & Recognition:

From SamStern.com:

What the critics said...

"A Yorkshire schoolboy turned culinary star" Independent

"Full of fun, healthy recipes ... an ideal gift" Home and Family

"A teenager with a passion for cooking" Daily Mail

References:
Get cooking. (n.d.). Sam Stern. Retrieved April 23, 2011, from http://www.samstern.co.uk/books_3.html

Sam Stern. (n.d.). Retrieved April 23, 2011, from http://www.samstern.co.uk/aboutme.html