Love Susan Branch, Hate This Book
Rating:
2 / 5
While I have the complete Susan Branch collection and have loved her artwork and recipes for years, I must say that I was very disappointed in this particular book. The other books Heart of the Home, Vineyard Seasons, The Summer Book, and Christmas from the Heart of the Home, have a very homey, average-jane (that's me!), judeo-christian type tone to them. The recipes are great and there are wonderful "I-can-do-this" ideas for decorating, entertaining, celebrating, etc. However, Girlfriends Forever, was a let down to me. I felt that this book was rife with New Age philosophies and Women First/feminist ideals, which as a Christian, just didn't sit right with me. I am disappointed that I paid money for this book and only keep it because my copy is personalized and autographed. (Susan Branch is a lovely woman, both inside and out, I was just disappointed with this work.) As far as the recipes go, there isn't anything appealing in this book. That was a big surprise, too, since I use her other cookbooks on a daily basis. Maybe this one is just too healty for me-- and I live in Southern California!! On the plus side, the artwork is wonderful, as usual and there are some good ideas regarding decorating and organizing. I particularly liked her meal planning ideas. But, the overall tone of the book was a disappointment to me.
Special book
Rating:
5 / 5
This is a wonderful and uplifting book. It reminds one how important girlfriends are to each other. Susan did a great job exemplifying this.
She did everything I should have done!
Rating:
5 / 5
This latest book celebrates the eternal bond of best friends. Oh, how I wish I had had her gumption to do the "wild things" she did (seems mighty tame by today's standards!). Again, a celebration! There is nothing more valuable than true friendship. This book delves into Susan's antics and also, shares some recipes that are actually "good for you" !?!?!? Susan has a way of reaching out and touching a familiar cord - you know - been there, done that or, I always wanted to do that! A wonderful gift. Enjoy!
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