I will be honest and say this book is new to me. I picked it up just this week in a charity shop for a pound. What a bargain! The Homemakers’ Cookbook and Guide to Nutrition was written in 1946. After flipping through it several times, it seems to be a brilliant book. The significance of nutrition and healthy eating was recognised 80 years ago, but I wasn't aware it was emphasised so much.

I imagine that right after the war, nations were focused on building strength and improving the health of their populations for the new era. This book was published in Washington DC and exudes an American vibe, but in a charming way—similar to The Wizard of Oz in Kansas, where Judy Garland bakes delicious, healthy cookies, wheat germ muffins, or maybe Boston brown bread.

This reminds me of an updated Mrs. Beeton's, but it was quite modern for its time. It includes charts detailing calorie counts, fat content, and other valuable information such as vitamin content in different foods, along with straightforward recipes. Such a book shouldn't be sniffed at; it's a historical document that offers insights into everyday life just after the war—a period focused on rebuilding and moving forward.

One recipe I particularly enjoy is for 'glorified carrots,' essentially croquettes made from cooked, grated carrots and breadcrumbs. Another intriguing one is Berkshire soup, made with canned corn and a surprising addition of two tablespoons of sugar! Sounds interesting…

There really is something for everyone in this book - if you can find one! The sticker on the front says ‘poor’, but I think it’s excellent!