Media Recipes Books

One of the most enlightening books I have ever read. It delivers, in spades, a strategy for gaining positive publicity. On the way, it provides extremely interesting and thought provoking insight into how the media (and media professionals) operates.

The book is logically structured, with each chapter building on the previous. The result is a memorable system, as opposed to a jumble of rules.

Each chapter provides valuable insights into the how's and why's of gaining access to media. The insight that had the most impact on me was that you have a client relationship with reporters. The only thing is, the reporter is the client. That insight alone was worth the price of the book.

This is a great read, and a must-have on your short list if you're interested in Media Relations. Mark breaks down his book into easy to digest chapters, with real world examples of how each media rule works. By the time you get done with this book, you'll have it highlighted, with notes and ideas written in the margins, eager to try them out for your cause. Then you'll read it again to see what you missed the first time!

I'm getting ready to return to college and get my degree in Communications/PR. After seeing Mark give a presentation at a luncheon, getting the chance to read his book and taking the opportunity to talk with him, I was convinced more than ever to stay on track. I'm hoping to use the ideas in his book to stun my professors. Thanks Mark!

I don't think anyone can read Feeding the Media Beast and not be entertained. Better yet they will learn valuable insights about dealing with the media. There has always been a mystique about the media, that somehow they are greater beings than mere mortals. Mathis easily puts that to rest through his personal stories and often humorous examples. Mathis knows the media and is generous in his willingness to share.

Once anyone with a product to sell or something to promote figures out that the media need US they will be halfway to meeting their goal. Knowing how the game is played, and how important we are to them, is what Mathis does an excellent job of teaching.

Prepare. That is the key principle that Mathis shares and that we need to remember over and over. The media can be intimidating and daunting if we allow it, but with the information in Feeding the Media Beast it doesn't have to be. The media should be our best friend and after reading this book you'll feel much more confident and remember that they need us.

If you have any interest in working with the media successfully, read this book. Before you write a press release, before you call a journalist, and definitely before you accept an interview, listen to what Mark Mathis has to say about the nature of the media industry. His experience and his insights are invaluable. Initially I had thought that the cartoon on the front and the constant reference to the media as a "Beast" seemed infantile, and then I realized that this is in keeping with the message. The media IS infantile. Modern media is hardly a mature form of communication--it's more like a three-year-old throwing a tantrum. Why it's that way is a subject for sociologists and philosophers. All I'm concerned with is how to work with this three-year-old, and this book shows me the way.

Mathis' book is *excellent*, but government communicators should also see a book written by a Washington pro, see Media Relations Handbook for Agencies, Associations, Nonprofits and Congress. The Handbook is written by Brad Fitch, who has more than a decade of Washington PR experience, with a Foreword by Mike McCurry.

What others have said about Fitch's book (about which you can see more at MediaRelationsHandbook.com ):

"Great advice for beginners and experienced media hands. If you are a media relations professional--either beginner or seasoned veteran--this is the book for you. Brad Fitch, who spent many years fielding reporters' tough questions on Capitol Hill, has written a timely, practical guide to handling media relations that is filled with solid professional advice. What goes into a press release? How do you develop a strategic message? You've got a digital camera and a fax machine, but what else does your office need to effectively handle the media? Before you start talking to a reporter, do you know the difference between 'on the record,' 'off the record,' and 'background'? When there's an immediate crisis in your organization, what are the eight mistakes that you absolutely must avoid? How do you handle your paranoid boss when he or she has to confront the press? You'll find the answers to these and many other everyday problems in this book. Fitch also gives valuable advice on how to set up an effective website and how to use e-mail for optimum communications. Excellent book for professionals who work in federal or state agencies, trade associations, non-profits, state legislatures or Congress. It's the only handbook you'll ever need."
-- Dennis W. Johnson, college professor and former Capitol Hill senior staffer

"Provides valuable advice for those who flack for a living."
-- Roll Call

"A superb blend of theory and practice, written by someone who uses words like Gallup uses polls."
-- Steve O'Keefe, author "Complete Guide to Internet Publicity" and Adjunct Faculty, Tulane University College

"Uncertain how to interest the press in your pressing issue? Having difficulty preparing your media-unfriendly boss for a tough interview? Worried about the next communications crisis and how to handle it? Brad Fitch answers those questions and many more in this crisp, clear and completely useful book."
-- Tucker Carlson, Co-Host CNN Crossfire, author

"A seminar from TheCapitol.Net is one of the best ways to learn from the experts about how Washington really works. Now all that insight and information has been packed into this invaluable volume. I suggest you read it, and become your own expert."
-- Steven V. Roberts, syndicated columnist, TV and radio analyst, college professor

"Brad Fitch has performed an admirable public service by giving public relations students and professionals alike an indispensable tool. His book provides a road map on both the practicalities and principles of PR, and he shows that honest PR is not an oxymoron. Now it's up to all of us in the media and spin industries to keep our end of the bargain."
-- Ed Henry, Congressional Correspondent, CNN (formerly Senior Editor of Roll Call)

"This volume is an invaluable road map to the mean streets of a city where information is power and power is everything. Brad Fitch has written a rich 'how-to' lesson for pros and for novices who must negotiate the competitive landscape of America's new media."
-- Ann Compton, White House Correspondent, ABC News

"Media Relations Handbook is to political campaigns what The Art of War is to military campaigns: an essential strategic reference that winners should never be without."
-- James Carville, Co-Host CNN Crossfire, author

If you're a government communicator, you should get both Feeding the Media BeastAgain and Fitch's book, MediaRelationsHandbook.com , or search Amazon using the ISBN: 1587330032

This is a wonderful collection of recipes many of us who are first generation ethnic Americans grew up with. I understand the author passed away in 2004 but not without leaving many fond memories of his FRUGAL GOURMET cooking show which used to air on PBS some time ago. I used to watch his show while living in New Orleans between 1982 and 1997. Of course my favorite section is THE LITHUANIAN IMMIGRANTS which lists recipes for Pressed Cheese (Suris), Kugelis Potato Pudding, Fresh Sausage (Kielbasa), Smoked Sausages (Kielbasa), Cold Beet Soup (Saltibarsciai), Pork in Gelatin (Koselina Saltiena) and Raw Sauerkraut with Caraway. My husband's favorites, of course, would be THE GERMAN IMMIGRANTS and THE IRISH IMMIGRANTS. The author really celebrates over 35 ethnic groups not only noting some of their best recipes but giving mini geography lessons and short descriptions of each individual culture before getting into detailing their recipes. In an era which only seems to highlight African, Greek, hispanic or Italian cooking, this book is a real treat!

How could a book on immigrant ancestors leave out the English? He covers Irish, Scottish, And Welsh immigrant recipes as well as recipes from many other cultures. Did all the English settlers become United Empire Loyalists and move north to Canada? I'm a Canadian and we ignore the English here as well. We have days celebrating every other culture except the English - Carribanna (in Toronto), Black history month, St. Patricks Day, Robbie Burns Day, St. Jean Baptiste Day (especially in Quebec) but no St. Davids Day (I don't even know when it is).

It's a good book but I guess I'll just have to look elsewhere for recipes for bangers and mash, bubble and squeak, fish and chips, trifle, etc.

My family has been using this cookbook for about 15 years, and we all love it. My brother and I started using it as high school kids, and loved experimenting with the enormous range of completely different cuisines represented here. When we left home our parents gave us each copies of this book, and it's still a favorite; now my husband loves the Filipino egg rolls, and the authentic Ethiopian section brings back fond memories of time I spent working there.

Over the years we've tried a high proportion of the recipes, and they've never failed or turned out "wrong." You will need access to some unusual ingredients, but many come in dried forms you could order over the internet if the selection in your town is limited. There's a helpful ingredient dictionary that suggests some substitutions. Any unfamilar techniques are explained so clearly, it's hard for even an inexperienced cook to mess things up. This is a great cookbook for any adventurous eater!

I love this cookbook! I just pulled it out to look something up, noticed how torn up it has gotten, and thought I'd look online for a replacement copy. This is, hands down, my favorite and most used cookbook. Recipes are easy to follow and delicious. I've had "authentic" cooking from some of the countries included, so I can vouch for the fact that the recipes are right on target.

When I was a kid I used to come home and turn on the Frugal Gourmet as he whipped up his meals. It was the first cooking show that I had ever seen and I still have fond memories of it. I bought this cookbook at a second hand store and have loved it ever since. The book breaksdown into chapters introducing and including simple recipes from different countries. Each dish is a typical, common meal that you would be served if you were there. The food is easy to make and all the ingredients are things you should be able to pick up in the local grocery store. The countries range from Cuba, Mexico, USA to Spain, Italy, Norway, France and then on to Ethiopia, Thailand, Egypt, Philippines, and Japan. There are around 60 or so countries represented and I have attempted to try foods from each. I love especially the Cuban, Hungarian, and German dishes. I really like how Smith puts his personal touch in describing fondly some of the reasons he chose the recipes.
The Frugal Gourmet has a series of cook books but this one is a good starter. This is great for someone who likes comfort food, and cuisine from different countries.

We got this cookbook for our 7 year old daughter for Christmas because she is a huge fan of Roald Dahl's books. She instantly went crazy for this cookbook, and even her 3 year old brother is fascinated by it. The recipes are so much fun, and the pictures are a wonderful combination of food photos and illustrations. We've already enjoyed the book so much that our daughter has decided to have a Roald Dahl party for her birthday in March, featuring snacks and foods from the cookbook. We are even planning on making goody-bags for the guests with several yummy treats inside. I'm so glad we found this cookbook and can enjoy it as a family!

My family and I have had loads of fun making Roald Dahl's recipes. We are eager to try all of them and think it is an ingenious accompaniment to Roald Dahl's wonderful books. It is wonderful because it has everything from the snozzcumbers from The BFG to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory's lickable wallpaper. It is a great shame that Roald Dahl is not here today to be able to cook from this book.

Roald dahl has finally made a little much of a cookbook. Try some of his awesome recipes and taste it. It's awfully delicous!!!

Roald Dahl, the famous story teller. Who hasn't read his all time classic: "Charlie and the Choclate Factory" and its follow up "Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator" and drool over the many different types of candy featured in these books? From Hot Ice Cream You Can Eat On Cold Days, Candy Pencils You Can Eat In Class and Marshmallow Pillows, this book features all the wonderful treats that were described in Roald Dahl's books.

Over fifteen different recipes, this books teaches you how to make these wonderful dishes. Step by step, making these treats couldn't be easier !

Illustrated by Quentin Blake with his lively pictures, once you have made the foodstuff, sit back, relax and enjoy the treats with your favourite Roald Dahl book.

A total blast. My friends loved the candy coated pencils best. Great for sucking during class. A fun book. With easy to follow instructions. Even my 9 year old sister loves it. YUMMY!

This book is laid out well, with a straightforward approach to directions for each recipe that will appeal to the tentative beginner. The recipes are geared for the beginner's palate, with no exotic ingredients or trendy food combinations. The recipes' ingredients are readily available and recipes each call for just a few ingredients. (Even advanced cooks can be overwhelmed by recipes with dozens of ingredients.) There is also some handy information at the back of the book, including a glossary of cooking terms.
This book will appeal to young adults who have recently gone out on their own, but have evolved to a level where top ramen is not purchased by the case. Good candidates for this book are the readers of 50 Ways to Leave Your Mother, and this book will take up where 50 Ways leaves off with its basic food tips. And, along with a care package of recipe ingredients or kitchen utensils, they would make an excellent gift for your 20-something relative or friend.

My Wife and were stuck cooking the same things over and over again until we got this cook book. Reciepes are easy to follow and they wonderful.

Really great book for my daughter who is a college student and does not know how to cook at all. It was a xmas gift for her and she has already made two dishes out of it and is very proud of herself.

This cookbook is excellent! Inexpensive meals that are perfect for my two sons that are away at college. Easy and clear instructions help them to fix meals that only take a few minutes to prepare. Makes a perfect gift!

I bought this book at a public book show put on by Scholastic outside a cafe where I sometimes eat lunch. I'm not unfamiliar with the kitchen and cooking, although I'm by no means a gourmet. But I've long been embarrassed by the fact that I just plain didn't know how to make a lot of "basic" items that a lot of cooks learn from experience. There were also a lot of gaps in my knowledge: for example, I knew what separated eggs were but I didn't know how to do it without making a gawdawful mess and imperfectly separated parts.

Enter this book. It's got a lot of good basic stuff, the kind that doesn't require expensive ingredients or unusual cooking implements. It's more than enough for good meal planning and many of the recipes are useful for the fairly competent cook who just wants something quick and cheap, but still tasty. The format of the recipes is also very easy to follow: ingredients are listed in the order of appearance and there are notes that explain timing issues ("while you are waiting for this to happen, do that.") There are also useful sidebars about various cooking-related issues; including, to continue my example above, one about methods for separating eggs.

Those looking for more adventure in the kitchen are probably going to be sorely let down, and mentions of microwaves are few and far between. But for someone looking for the basics in order to facilitate good meals and meal planning with good time management, this is an excellent choice...even if the title is a little bit embarrassing.

We've tried over 20 of the recipes to date and have liked all but two of them. I like to try one new recipe out of this book each week. Some of my favorite recipes thus far are: Calico Beans, Hamburger Soup, Roast Pork with Red Cabbage and Apples, Chicken Breast with Sherry-Sour Cream Sauce, Buttermilk Baking Powder Biscuits, and Oatmeal Cherry Muffins. I like to cook, but do not often add to my collection of cookbooks. After borrowing this one from the library several times I finally decided it was worth owning. I highly recommend this cookbook; in my mind it ranks with Joy of Cooking for utility.

I got this book directly from the author after hearing her speak on nutrition for cancer patients. But although she also has a couple of cookbooks related to cancer, this book has great, simple dishes that the whole family loves. She has taken many "old favorites" and made them healthier, though no less tasty. My picky kids quickly found a number of favorites from this book, including Beef Stroganoff and Meatballs in Sour Cream Sauce. I also recommend Weihofen's "Moms Updated Quick Meals Recipe Box"; I was keeping my eyes out for that one and bought it here as soon as it was published (early 2006).

My very picky 10 year old daughter loves the Fettucini Alfredo! This cookbook is awesome and it is the one book that I refer to constantly. The children at her school loved the Peanut Butter Cornflake Nuggets. This book is awesome and I may have to buy another because the pages are starting to fall out from usage!

I am an avid cook and this is by far one of my favorite cookbooks and the one that I use more than any other. The recipes are quick and easy to prepare -- perfect for mid-week dinners. The ingredients are easy to find, and the recipes have been made healthier without sacrificing flavor. Our personal favorites are the hash brown casserole, apricot-glazed chicken, lemon bars, and porcupine meatballs. I highly recommend this book!

The recipe for Veggie Cheese Pie calls for 1/2 cup salt. Try 1/2 teaspoon. Other than this misprint I have enjoyed this recipe book. Great for beginners.

This cookbook provides recipes for everyday food that doesn't rely on hard to find products. We are eating good meals and not missing salt like we thought we would. We even feel comfortable inviting guests to share dinner.

This book is extraordinary. It is so unique, complete and really a great help in many ways in your everyday menus. I firmly recommend it to the ones that have high-blood pressure problems or simply if you are on a diet. Salt is the basic problem of why people don't reduce weight today. Think it firmly, start with this book and see marvelous results in your life. The tool is available to you, so no more excuses. Start NOW!

So many great recipes for everyday items. Lots of bread recipes, and sauces, it helps so much.

Your service was superb. Never have had such attentive help, ordering an item. The CD is super. Thank you for caring enough to send an inquiry. francespatterson@Bellsouth.net Yes, I am w-a-a-y over 13. How about 70 years old!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have only tried a few of the recipes but they have been very good. I am looking forward to the rest of them

Picture-Taking for Moms and Dads is a life saver. Ron Nichols has packed more practical, useful tips in this volume than seem possible. His comments on lighting alone are worth the price. Also, his advice to "consider it playtime," is the missing ingredient in most family photography. This is a wonderful book, and has already changed me from a semi-competent picture snapper into a fledgling photographer. Well written, with great advice. Highly recommended.

Ron Nichols' book is a must for novice photographers who want to take photos of their children that will last a lifetime. His experience as a professional photographer and as a proud parent shows through in this well-illustrated book. The variety in topics to cover all the basics of a good picture is well thought out. His focus on getting photos that are composed and lighted to bring out the best in the character of your children make it a great reference book. I believe anyone, no matter what their knowledge level in photography (especially if they are a complete novice) can pick this book up and in no time at all be taking photos that are a 100 percent improvement over their current photos. Having taken photos and coached novices who want better photos myself, I have to say I am impressed with the both the material and the presentation in this book.

What a great book! A tremendous little publication that explains photography in such an easy way! This book is a must for any parent looking to capture "those special memories" that go by so quickly. By all means, buy this book! Your picture taking skills will increase dramatically....you will be the hit of your scrapbooking club.

A great little book with wonderful ideas for moms and dads just starting out and those with considerable photography experience. A wonderful wedding-shower gift. Every home should have this book.

This is a wonderful book. It goes from the very beginning of figuring out what camera is right for you to how to light and compose your subject. It also covers everything in between. This book really gives you an inside look at photography while not getting to complex to confuse you. It's not only a great beginners book but it's also for the photo buff in any family. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to take pictures and the people who want to get even better at it.

I don't even live near a 99 Cent Only Store, but being a big fan of dollar stores I had to buy this book. There are SO many great ideas. I have been able to find most products (or a subsititute) at local dollar sotres or Big Lots. Not only are the ideas great, but they are easy to make!

Just got this last week and tried 2 of the recipes for a party this weekend. My friends and I (all twenty somethings) loved the food and I saved a lot of money. I definitely recommend it. I thought it might be hard to find the ingredients at the 99 cent store but they were all there, plus I already had a fair amount of the ingredients on hand. Super easy, super budget friendly, super good.

Not only was I surprised by the adaptability to make a lot of recipes vegetarian, if they weren't already, but having never shopped for food at the 99 Cent Store, I was shocked to see a lot of fresh and organic produce. The recipes are great - easy to prepare, and if I mess something up I'm only out a couple bucks!

I'm a Dad on a tight budget and I love going to the 99cent store. A friend of mine got me the book as a bit of a joke and it turned out to be a real gift. I love to cook and this gives me a chance to cook with my son. The recipes are unique, pretty simple and VERY tasty. While that's great it also gives me the chance to let him take the reigns without worrying about ruining expensive ingredients. Overall Ms. Jory's recipes are bold and creative and they inspire you to take risks without fear. Every time I try to make something from Martha or Barefoot or any other cookbook, I'm worried about wasting all the money I spent on fancy ingredients. This is a great way to make your own test kitchen of sorts.
I also love the helpful hints. It's little things like that that keep me going back to a cookbook as a resource. I'll be the first to say I never saw it coming but I LOVE THIS BOOK!

The Everything Easy Gourmet Cookbook: Distinctive Recipes From Around The World To Please Your Family And Friends by Nicole Alper lives up to its title with superbly "user friendly" recipes whose step-by-step instructions will enable even the most novice kitchen cook to turn out savory dishes with a multicultural culinary flair for any and all occasions. From Glazed Turnips with Cinnamon (Belgium); Hazelnut Torte (Germany); Braised Veal Shanks with Porcini Mushrooms (Italy); and Rabbit in Wine (Spain); to Lamb Curry with Banana Raita (India); Green Mango and Shrimp Salad (Thailand); Snail in Black Bean and Orange Peel Sauce (China); and Duck Confit in Phyllo with Caramelized Apples (Canada), The Everything Easy Gourmet Cookbook offers a wealth of culinary delights drawn from countries around the world that would please the palate of even the most discerning gourmet.

The Everything Easy Gourmet Cookbook: Distinctive Recipes From Around The World To Please Your Family And Friends by Nicole Alper lives up to its title with superbly "user friendly" recipes whose step-by-step instructions will enable even the most novice kitchen cook to turn out savory dishes with a multicultural culinary flair for any and all occasions. From Glazed Turnips with Cinnamon (Belgium); Hazelnut Torte (Germany); Braised Veal Shanks with Porcini Mushrooms (Italy); and Rabbit in Wine (Spain); to Lamb Curry with Banana Raita (India); Green Mango and Shrimp Salad (Thailand); Snail in Black Bean and Orange Peel Sauce (China); and Duck Confit in Phyllo with Caramelized Apples (Canada), The Everything Easy Gourmet Cookbook offers a wealth of culinary delights drawn from countries around the world that would please the palate of even the most discerning gourmet.

The Everything Easy Gourmet Cookbook: Distinctive Recipes From Around The World To Please Your Family And Friends by Nicole Alper lives up to its title with superbly "user friendly" recipes whose step-by-step instructions will enable even the most novice kitchen cook to turn out savory dishes with a multicultural culinary flair for any and all occasions. From Glazed Turnips with Cinnamon (Belgium); Hazelnut Torte (Germany); Braised Veal Shanks with Porcini Mushrooms (Italy); and Rabbit in Wine (Spain); to Lamb Curry with Banana Raita (India); Green Mango and Shrimp Salad (Thailand); Snail in Black Bean and Orange Peel Sauce (China); and Duck Confit in Phyllo with Caramelized Apples (Canada), The Everything Easy Gourmet Cookbook offers a wealth of culinary delights drawn from countries around the world that would please the palate of even the most discerning gourmet.