Neha Thakur Thakur থেকে Pandachhencha, Odisha 721506, India
Thorough without being overwhelming, this is a great starting point (or, in my case, refresher read) for the aspiring "macaroniste." The photos are very helpful. I especially liked the simple and straightforward instructions and troubleshooting for common problems/errors. I read through the whole thing in about 10 minutes, and I can guarantee that I'll actually use the book in the kitchen while baking. It gets 4 of 5 stars because 1) I felt it skimmed a little too quickly over some very important elements of the cookies (the 'feet,' for example), and because 2) I'm pathetically obsessed with these little French confections, and I want more more more information - more history, more science, more practical suggestions on how to make the perfect macaron. I've read reams of information (mostly online, in blog form) about this fancy treat, but I STILL want more. I think my fanaticism is affected in part by the fact that I can't get them anywhere near me. I can have them shipped (and I've done it!), but they're still sort of mysterious and exotic. And completely charming. Swoon. Okaaaaaay, geek-rant over. If you're into this sort of thing or just curious, here is as good a place to start as any. Then hit up The Google, and enjoy the journey :)