Internationally popular Australian cookbook author Hay (The New Cook) follows the savory classic dishes of Modern Classics 1, with this latest on sweets. Illustrating each recipe with a beautiful color photograph are simple instructions that place all the dishes within the reach of every level of cook. Covering the gamut from cookies to tarts and cakes to hot puddings, her recipes are simple, contemporary takes on time-honored favorites and new standards. From traditional Gingerbread Men and rich Chocolate Mousse to her individual Tiramisus, she includes dishes suitable for any occasion and any palate or diet. Many of the dishes are accompanied by captioned photographs and have adaptations of the finished dish, as with the Shortbread, which provides lemon, ginger and lavender varieties to tempt the palate. At the other end of the scale, "Short Order" pages have several short, snappy recipes that are quick, easy-to-prepare dishes and range from Tart and Bun Glaze to the Crème Anglaise. Ingredients, methods and bakeware asterisked within the recipes are described in the Glossary and Tools sections at the back of the book for those for whom further explanations are needed. Giving true meaning to the title Modern Classics, the resulting volume is a welcome addition to any cook's shelf and is sure to add to the ranks of Hay's growing number of fans. (Oct.)
Forecast: Hay is highly popular in Australia and the U.K., and her presence is sure to be felt soon in the U.S.
