Cookbook Review: The Family Kitchen Garden

This book is just what it sounds like--part gardening, part cookbook. As you may have heard before, if children are involved in growing fruits and vegetables, they are more likely to try them (and hopefully learn to love them)! The authors have organized this book by month and give you step-by-step instructions for planting, harvesting and preparing the foods you grow. A recipe (or more) is included for each month like Carrot & Ginger Soup (in November), Fruit Ice Pops for kids (in June) or Homemade Ketchup (in September) and are sure to appeal to just about everyone. A basic primer on gardening is included in the beginning of the book to help you figure out what supplies and tools you will need.

The last section of the book provides much more detail for both vegetables and fruits. Step-by-step strategies to start you off right. They also include tips for planting companion plants that lead you to success...for example, if you're planting onions you should also plant carrots (because the onion smell distracts the carrot flies) and parsley (to destract the onion flies). Who knew?

Adults and kids alike will find this book to be a great start to get you growing your own food, learning to love eating it and best of all, spending time together!

Check with your local Agricultural Extension Service to find out what your area's growing season is for the fruits and vegetables highlighted in this book.