Natalie's Reviews

Australian chef Lepard pays homage to the bread belt of Europe, selecting some phenomenal, varied favorites from each country. The instructions on making and using sourdough starters as well as yeast are helpful and engaging, and I found success with every recipe I tried. - Natalie

Get your holiday gift early--this book is perfect for the camper in your life. From backcountry breakfast boards to skillet pizza to campfire skills, gorp, and canteen cocktails, this book has you covered. The charming illustrations and mouthwatering recipes have inspired my next camping trip and will yours, too. - Natalie

Phaidon does it again! I adore this beautiful little collection of secret and not-so-secret gardens and parks throughout the world. You may even discover some hidden gems in your own city. A wonderful collection to inspire your own outdoor sanctuary or to guide your travels. - Natalie

Do yourself a favor and open up this book. Even if you're not a plant/natural history nerd like me, I assure you this book will bring you so much joy. A glorious exploration of the world through its most culturally, economically, and spiritually significant trees, featuring fabulous illustrations and fascinating mini-bios for each tree. - Natalie

Climate change and drought, on the plus side, have nudged Californians towards more regionally appropriate gardens, towards awareness and creativity. I love this book-- a wonderful guide to joyful, artistic plants and designs, essential for the 21st century homeowner or garden lover. - Natalie

If you're socially anxious, this book is for you. It follows tried-and-true cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to offer concrete steps towards managing anxiety. Hendriksen is a gentle, witty mentor, and her stories of challenges and triumphs inspire. For a book about anxiety, the book was a breeze to read, and I've already been seeing results in my own life going through the exercises. - Natalie

Martin Nordin, the creative Swedish veggie enthusiast behind the Instagram sensation “Green Burgers,” takes vegetarian burgers and sides to the next level. I warmed up my carnivorous friends with some Pickled Onions and Sweet Potato Chips with Swiss Cheese, then offered them more of a challenge: the Chickpea and Grilled Pepper Burger with Dill-Dunked Cucumber Salad. A tasty time was had by all, especially by this cook, who is inspired to take her burger game up a notch (or three). - Natalie

I urge you to pick up this. I loved learning about microscopic, indestructible water bears, moss diapers, peat bogs, and the grueling fun of being a scientist.  Kimmerer has something that few science writers have: lyrical writing and an infectious curiosity for the world around her. This gem of a book instills a sense of delight and awe and gratitude for living things. - Natalie

In an age of fake news, ‘alternative facts,’ and infinite information, it can be infuriating to argue over the truth. With humor and a wealth of examples, MacDonald argues that most ‘truths’ are slippery. Truth challenges you to think critically by illustrating how truth can be manipulated and by identifying ways to strengthen your defenses against misleaders. - Natalie

This cookbook contains the essentials, no more and no less. David Bez expands on the recent “grain bowl” trend to provide a myriad of easy dinner ideas. His recipes require some very basic cooking knowledge, but they are not daunting. If you’re bit intimidated by cookbooks, and you’re always asking “what do I make for dinner?”, this cookbook is your new best friend. - Natalie