This was my very first adult cookbook. I had a couple of cookbooks that I bought from a book fair in grade school, but this one did not tell me to have a parent present when doing anything with a stove.
I really like this cookbook. Yes, I have a much older edition than the one available now. Sure, it includes new recipes. Yes, it now includes nutrition information. However, the basics are still there.
It covers cooking, baking, and even canning. It is full of how-to pictures and essential information for any cook.
The recipes are good, but the other information is what makes this a great general cookbook. This is a really good beginning cookbook.