Meta Given's Modern Encyclopedia of Cooking (Vol. 1 (A-F))

This is not just a cookbook. It is also about table service, etiquette, and group serving. Recipes go through A-F which includes APPETIZERS, BEVERAGES, BREADS, CAKES, CANDY, CEREALS, CHEESE, COOKIES, CROQUETTES, DESSERTS, DIETS, EGGS, AND FISH. Also includes menu ideas. There is another volume (volume 2 G-Z). If you can find the second volume it will complete the set. Even by itself this is a great book with hundreds of recipes. (not a small book at all).