If I could only have two books to guide me through all things domestic, there is no question as to which books I would pick. As I have mentioned before, I love information (the more the merrier!) and these two books are jam-packed with the most useful tips, guides and recipes. When it comes to turning a house into a home, these two books have it covered!
Joy of Cooking
For all food and recipes, I would recommend Joy of Cooking, by: Irma S. Rombauer, et al. This cookbook explains how to cook almost anything and guides you through the basics of entertaining, cookware and all tableware. The contents of this book really runs the gamut from pork tenderloin to Baked Alaska, and has been a staple in so many kitchens for close to a century. This comprehensive resource is a favorite of mine and an essential for all cooks regardless of skill level.
Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook
This may come as a surprise (definite sarcasm), but I am a HUGE Martha Stewart fan. If the truth be known, I have been a huge fan since I was little. Yes, as a child I liked my Barbies, American Girl Dolls and watching Martha Stewart Living. I think she is excellent at what she does, and I appreciate all of her homemaking lessons and suggestions. Her magazines are great and I love her website, but when Martha released her Homekeeping Handbook, it was something that I not only had to have, but needed to share with all of my friends. This book is a favorite and a staple in my home. Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook covers all aspects of home management from how to clean a stain to the basics of home lighting repairs. Literally every homekeeping question is answered in this book. It really is "the essential guide to caring for everything in your home."
