The Jumbo Vegetarian Cookbook

Steve Pitt is a Toronto-based freelance writer and an award-winning journalist. He has written many young adult and children's books, including Day of the Flying Fox: The True Story of World War II Pilot Charley Fox.

Like earlier volumes in the Jumbo Book series, this sixth book seeks to
teach preteens how to be active participants in the subject. The
introduction explains the various levels of vegetarianism, ranging from
strict vegans, who will not eat (or use in any way) a product made from
an animal; to the more casual lacto-ovo vegetarians, who eat egg and
dairy products; and the pesco-vegetarians, who eat fish. The authors
repeatedly stress that the less animal product you eat, the more careful
you have to be to ensure you get enough nutrition. They outline the
three basic food groups—carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—and
explain which plants are the best sources for these nutrients.

After a brief explanation of basic cooking skills and kitchen utensils
and safety, the rest of the book comprises more than 125 recipes in 12
chapters: “Breakfast,” “Sandwiches,” “Wraps and Snacks,”
“Soups,” “Salads,” “Lunches and Dinners,” “Rice Pasta and
Noodles,” “Breads,” “Vegetables,” “Sauces and Fillings,”
“Cookies and Desserts,” and “Drinks.” Symbols are used to tell
the reader about each recipe. For example, stars (one to three) are
posted for levels of difficulty, and a smiling face tells the reader how
many servings to expect. Each recipe includes easy-to-follow
instructions.

The Jumbo Vegetarian Cookbook will make a fine resource for any mature
child or parent who is interested in trying vegetarian cuisine. Highly
recommended.