Cornelia Guest's Simple Pleasures

Guest (The Debutante's Guide to Life) writes for vegans who want to throw a party to show their friends just how delicious vegan food can be. Although recipes make up the majority of the book, it is primarily about entertaining with style. The first chapter chronicles Guest's evolution from animal lover to vegetarian and finally to vegan, for both health and ethical reasons. Chapter 2 contains some questionable medical advice: for example, Guest recommends dividing one's body weight by two to determine how many ounces of water one should drink per day (advice also found on a number of free websites). Chapter 3 is more helpful, with party-planning tips, table-seating etiquette, and suggestions for surviving culinary disasters. Party themes are divided by season and include recommended menus: for example, the alfresco summer fare includes such enticing recipes as Green Gazpacho, Veggie Carpaccio, Spaghetti with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil, Zucchini Blossoms Stuffed with Amaranth, Green Salad with Truffle Vinaigrette, and Plum Pie and Popsicles.