Happy Holidays from the Do-Ahead Diva: A Year of Feasts to Celebrate with Family and Friends

The self-proclaimed Diva of Do-Ahead says she is "the coach to help you get the dinner prepared ahead of time so you can enjoy your family and friends." Her point: what fun is a party when the harried host is stuck in the kitchen? The thorough and engaging Diva comes through, offering creative ideas for invitations, tips for deciding how much food to make and recommendations for equipment and tools. Her 12 party plans span the year, from New Year's Eve through Passover to Christmas. Do-ahead countdowns have specifics for planning ahead (from six months down to five minutes before an event). Classic recipes include Grilled Lemon Chicken Breast; innovative ones include Roasted Tomato and Pesto Cheesecake with Polenta Crust, and Creamy Corn Bisque with French Chives and Heart-Shaped Crostini. Highlights come from the Thanksgiving and Christmas classes she's taught for 15 years, including an impressive strategy for the perfect roast turkey. The book's clear language and devotion to detail make it appropriate for novices and accomplished cooks alike. (Oct.)