This isn't just any cookery book. This is Mastering the Art of French Cooking and it's a book that is a statement, not of culinary intent, but of aspiration, a commitment to a certain sort of good life, a certain sort of world-view; a votive object implying taste and appetite and a little je ne sais quoi. Julia Child's books are a triumph, and also a trophy . (A.A. Gill, The Times ). This is the bestselling classic guide to French cooking with over 1000 clear authentic and delicious recipes for every key French dish from Boeuf Bourguignon to the perfect croissant. And now to celebrate its 50th anniversary Penguin have reset and redesigned the text and there is a special anniversary introduction from Julia Child. Published in time for Mother's Day, this boxset with its two beautiful hardback volumes will become the essential ingredient for any cultivated kitchen.