The Perfect Finish
by Bill Yosses and Melissa Clark
“Crustmaster” Bill Yosses’ long-awaited collection of dessert recipes graces our kitchens in June—80 personally selected desserts from his collection of over 5,000 recipes. The book is organized by occasion, which makes planning a snap. Chapter headings include Come for Brunch, I’ll Bring Dessert (easy to pack), and Pick-Me-Ups (day-brightening cookie and brownie recipes). There are also recipes for birthdays and holidays, including his signature Warm Vanilla Cake. Also included are sections on storing and transporting desserts, techniques, and finding special ingredients. Oh—did I mention that Yosses is the executive pastry chef at the White House? He loves food to taste really good—and this beautiful book shows the way.

With the explosion of interest in local and sustainable food, consumers now have more choices of products, labels, and ways to shop than ever before, and many people are left wondering where to start. In his latest book, Food Rules, food guru and bestselling author Michael Pollan summarized his approach in just seven words: "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants." Great advice, but some home cooks may need just a little help getting there—and that’s where a host of new cookbooks come in. Tip: Consider teaming up with your farmer’s market or community farmers to host an educational event on local and sustainable food at your store or library. Visit www.localharvest.org/csa/ to learn more about growers in your area.

The Conscious Kitchen by Alexandra Zissu

Eating Local by Janet Fletcher

Edible by Tracey Ryder

Farm to Fork by Emeril Lagasse

Farmer Jane by Temra Costa

In the Green Kitchen by Alice Waters

The Locavore's Handbook by Leda Meredith

Ripe from Around Here by Jae Steele

Southern Living Farmers Market Cookbook by the Editors of Southern Living Magazine

Sustainably Delicious by Michel Nischan

Traditional Kitchen Wisdom by Andrea Chesman

Urban Pantry by Amy Pennington