Chef Gino's Taste Test Challenge

January 1, 2018

Gr 5 Up-Campagna draws on his training in early childhood education to "raise American families' food IQ." Campagna's wide smile and expressive face present the act of cooking as not only fun but also as an "empowering adventure." The introduction, most likely of interest to adults, is followed by "Kitchen Rules" and bright photos of related tools and their uses. Recipe sections cover soups, pasta, pizza, eggs, fruit, and more. Pages are slick and richly colored, with eye-catching illustrations and photos of food prep and finished dishes prepared by the chef and a diverse group of young kitchen helpers. Processed ingredients are rarely used and fresh vegetables appear often. Food allergies are not specifically addressed. Budding cooks are encouraged to experiment with flavor combinations and make the recipes their own. Brief tips and boxed facts accompany many recipes. Most recipes are relatively quick to prepare and accessible to tweens with some kitchen experience or an adult nearby. VERDICT The bright colors, catchy dish names and Campagna's friendly attitude offer encouragement and guidance for novice cooks. Suitable for any school cookbook collection.-Maggie Knapp, Trinity Valley School, Fort Worth, TX

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.