With all of the cookbooks out there, it is difficult to separate the good from the bad. Here are three recent releases worth checking out: 1. Seasonal Fruit Desserts by Deborah Madison Madison is famous for her work with vegetables, but it turns out she is equally gifted when cooking and writing about fruit. The introduction to this lovely book is outstanding, and it alone makes the book worth seeking out. Madison lays out her philosophy of baking and working with local, seasonal fruit so elegantly and directly that it is absolutely inspiring. Recipes range from simple presentations of fresh fruit to more elaborate cakes and tarts. For someone who doesn't care much for chocolate, this book is especially exciting. With recipes like Rhubarb Tarts with Corn Flour Crust, and Pistachio-Cardamom Torte with Warm Cherry Compote, Madison revives your love of fruit just in time for summer and will have you anxiously awaiting your next trip to the farmers' market. 2. The SoNo Baking Company Cookbook by John Barricelli Many of us know Barricelli from his work on Martha Stewart's television series Everyday Food and frankly, that show puts me to sleep. They're all clearly skilled cooks and bakers and everything they make looks delicious, but it's corporate training video-style is a real snoozefest. So I was pleasantly surprised that more of Barricelli's personality comes through in his first book. The collection of recipes named after his bakery in Connecticut covers all of the basics from sticky buns to pies and brownies. There are beautiful photographs and helpful tips throughout. This is a great basic baking book and helpful to folks looking for a range of recipes to satisfy their sweet tooth. 3. Ready for Dessert by David Lebovitz Fans of Lebovitz will not be disappointed by this collection of his favorite recipes which is peppered throughout with his signature humor. Some truly inspiring desserts which will get you into your kitchen to bake. I tried the Guinness-Gingerbread Cupcakes within days of acquiring the book and was instantly sold. The richly flavored cupcakes are topped with a bright lime frosting and are typical of Lebovitz who always manages to make classic, satisfying desserts more interesting. This book is my favorite of the lot and one that I will be using often throughout the year. And for fans of The Perfect Scoop, Lebovitz's ice cream masterpiece, rest assured that there is an entire section dedicated to ice creams and sorbets. What cookbooks have you been enjoying lately? What should we be looking for on our next trip to the library or local bookstore?

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