Nonfiction Book Reviews

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Bobbi Brown Beauty Revolution by Bobbi Brown with Sally Wadyka
Harper Resource, October, 2002
Hardcover, 211 pages
ISBN: 0060088818
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

World-renowned makeup artist and founder of the eponymous cosmetics company, Bobbi Brown has created a makeup and style bible which really does have something for everyone. Brown covers basic skincare, hair care and makeup application for each decade of life, from the 20s through the 70s and beyond. Using ordinary people of all ethnicities as models, she presents 300 photographs to demonstrate her techniques. She also addresses the common pitfalls of aging, and how to disguise (naturally) time's remorseless advance.

Her makeup tips are plentiful and sound, although there are some other experts that do not agree with her insistence on yellow-based foundation for most skin colors. With a chatty tone, the book is an easy read, giving readers the feeling that Brown is looking over her shoulder giving some friendly advice. There is a great deal of know-how packed into this book; this is a must-have for anyone who enjoys looking her best, well into her 80s and beyond.

Cooking the Roman Way by David Downie, Photographs by Alison Harris
HarperCollins, October, 2002
Hardcover, 314 pages
ISBN: 0060188928
Ordering information:
Amazon.com

Cooking the Roman Way
by David Downie, Photographs by Alison Harris

Food and travel writer David Downie, author of Enchanted Liguria: A Celebration of the Culture, Lifestyle and Food of the Italian Riviera, now takes readers on a culinary adventure through the trattorias of Rome in his latest book. In his Introduction, Downie implores readers to "Close your eyes and imagine you're in Rome, seated al fresco in the sun on a rooftop terrace, smack in the center of town… what, after all, can beat tucking into the pyramids of stuffed zucchini flowers fried golden in olive oil, the mound of fresh fava beans and Pecorino Romano chesses, the braised artichokes alla romana and platters of rosemary-perfumed spring suckling lamb arranged before you?" What, indeed? With such writing the author will inspire you to race off to your kitchen to attempt to recreate the various Roman feasts captured in the pages of the book.

The recipes are not overly complicated, and use readily available ingredients. From Baked Gnocchi with Butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano, to Spicy Boned Lamb Leg Sauteed With Rosemary, Wine and Vinegar, to Golden Fried Artichoke Slices Roman Style, to Eugenio Velardi's Ultra-Light Roman Tiramisu, Downie takes readers on a culinary tour that is sure to please both novice and advanced cooks alike.

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Nonfiction Book Reviews

Bobbi Brown Beauty Revolution by Bobbi Brown with Sally Wadyka

Cooking the Roman Way by David Downie, Photographs by Alison Harris