Stephen Cresswell shows readers how to create their own root beers, ginger ales, sarsparillas, and other plant-derived sodas and pops with a few few tools. He illustrates the process and tools with line drawings. Cresswell studied historic recipes for these savory beverages and presents many here. He gave readers some useful tips on differences in yeast then and now to keep in mind if using one of the older recipes. While I'd probably enjoy tasting one of these, the warnings about exploding bottles are enough to keep me running to nearby Amish store to savor one of these when I want one rather than attempting them on my own. I really think they make more than I'd consume before spoiling anyway. ( )

Decent manual for making home-made sodas and other bottled beverages. You won't find too much in the technique section (about 1/3 of the book) if you are already familiar with homebrewing beer. However, if you've never brewed your own beverages at home, this might be a great way to get started! Basic home-brewed root beer is actually pretty easy and inexpensive. Definitely a worthy substitute for high-fructose beverages from the store.

There are only a few recipes that actually sound interesting to make. But there are some great ideas, and a good section that gives guidance on how to improvise your own recipes. Also, some good detailed parts on preventing exploding bottles (never fun). I think I'll probably photocopy and save a few pages, but won't buy this one for reference.

This book is really awesome and I totally want a copy of my own. I just tried the cream soda (with a few alterations) today and it tasted great even before fermentation. I imagine it will be even better once it's cold and carbonated. I'm really excited to try out a bunch of the other recipes! ( )

There's more to this book than just recipes. You'll find interesting info about the origins of root beer and other early beverages. A full-bodied, book with depth and distinct aroma. ( )