★Dăc Biêt: An Extra-Special Vietnamese Cookbook. Nini Nguyen & Sarah Zorn. Knopf. Aug. 2024. 368p. ISBN 9780593535547. $38. COOKING

 Don’t skip this book’s introduction, because the key to making home-cooked meals dăc biêt (that is, something special) is revealed right off the bat. Fans of Nguyen from her Top Chef appearances will immediately recognize her vibrant personality in the narrative and recipes, as well as her cuisine rooted in her Vietnamese heritage and New Orleans upbringing. Bright and enjoyable, the colorful photography reflects the layout, which cleverly uses hot pink to highlight the ingredients for quick shopping lists and recipe review. Guides, tips, and pairings are everywhere and make readers feel as though Nguyen is standing next to them, giving a helping hand. Traditional dishes such as bánh mì and pho are covered at length, but Nguyen also surprises with her Viet Cajun Seafood Boil and other innovative fusion dishes. Recipes run the gamut from easy-to-execute weeknight dishes to more elaborate fare. The phrase “less is more” needs to be thrown out the window with this collection that covers recipes for all occasions, cooking skills, and appetites—all with delicious results. VERDICT Nguyen’s delicious efforts to bring her unique cuisine and personal style to print will be a hit with fans and newbies alike.