Gifts from the heart are welcome any time of the year. This latest volume in the Gifts of Good Taste series features 100+ recipes for all gift giving occasions including the holidays.

There's something for everyone with recipes for homemade candies, holiday treats, and snacks. The cookie recipes feature all sorts of fun shapes like fish lures, watermelon slices, and ice cream cones. Bakers will also enjoy the variety of bread recipes for quick breads, muffins, biscuits, and yeast breads. And don't forget the beverages; there's plenty for coffee and tea lovers to enjoy.

Additionally, this book features cute gift presentation ideas like candy boxes, bottle bags, and ribbon roses. Patterns for crafts are included, and most require only basic skills. A recipe index is included as well.

The Bottom Line: Bakers looking for gift giving ideas will welcome this newest addition to the Gifts of Good Taste series by Leisure Arts. "The Creative Kitchen" features recipes and crafts that are quick and simple to make featuring ingredients and materials that are readily available. Bright, full color photos are included for each recipe and craft. Both bakers and crafters of all skill levels will find a bounty of ideas in this volume. Recommended for all.

This review also appears at the Mini Book Bytes Book Review Blog: http://minibookbytes.blogspot.com/ ( )