I first came across this cookbook in 1984 at the Juneau,Alaska Public Library, do to my neighbors dog loving it as much as I do, I still have it, though one corner of the cover is a bit chewed up. It smells of old oil and spices as it spent many a meals on my counter. Some amazing and simple recipes for a novice to some more advance dishes once you get better. Can not recommend the Red Cooked Chicken or the Sweet & Sour Ribs super easy and a crowd pleaser. My 30+ yo kids and their friends still talk about them. Also the illustrations and cooking tips are great