In order to look more closely at the cookbooks of childhood,
my mother supplied me with a recipe book she owned as a child. Published in
1967, the My Learn to Cook Book looks
a bit worn now but has been well used and loved by the family. It is
interesting as it appears to rely heavily on illustration as opposed to written
instruction. That isn’t to say that the recipes are difficult to follow; the
appearance is perhaps intended to maintain the target audience’s attention. Also,
the drawings create something to aspire to; the final product should ideally
look like the illustrations. The illustrations tie in to instruction, as
applying appearance to a product will help to familiarize children with typical
kitchen appliances and products.
The instructions are easy to follow and the recipes contain
a list of ingredients and equipment to go with them. At the beginning of each
chapter, there are lists of ‘Do’s and Don’ts’, as well as helpful hints in
order to educate, as well as ensuring a successful final product. It encourages
safety in the kitchen as it asks to “make sure a grown-up is present when you
are using the cooker” (7) and “ask your mother to help you when you use sharp
knives” (7). The cook book appears particularly gender specific, but also
communicates the idea that this activity will be one that involves the parent
and child.
I decided to make a family favourite from this book. Both my
sisters and I grew up eating ‘Crispy Crackolates’ at parties, special
occasions, and whenever we could persuade our mum to make them! Considering
that they are always irresistibly tasty, I thought it would be a good recipe to
demonstrate that the older cookbooks for children are just as good as the new
ones.
This is the successful final product which proved
particularly popular with my flatmates.
Works Cited
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