Reader Digest Version Global
Dec 09, 2011 01:51 PM EDT

by Lauren Gniazdowski

The Cook's Illustrated Cookbook

The editors at Cook’s Illustrated have compiled the ultimate collection: over 2,000 of their best, thoroughly tested recipes – and all the tips that go along with them. The helpful “Why This Recipe Works” notes throughout explain pitfalls and virtually ensure success. Try these recipes: Old-Fashioned Beef Stew; Foolproof Pie Dough; Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies Read More >>

Dec 09, 2011 01:51 PM EDT

by Lauren Gniazdowski

Ruhlman's Twenty

These 20 cooking basics will have newcomers and seasoned pros sautéing and braising better in no time. The step-by-step photos show how to master each technique, and Ruhlman’s thorough and practical instruction ends with sweet and savory results. Try these recipes: Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Tarragon Butter Sauce Read More >>

Dec 09, 2011 01:50 PM EDT

by Lauren Gniazdowski

Cook This Now

Clark’s book is organized month by month to highlight what’s in season. After all, at the farmers’ market, she writes, “the possibility of discovery is always there.” And no matter what this New York Times food columnist finds as she forages, she makes a meal of it. Try these recipes: Chile-Coconut Braised Beef Short Ribs; Devil’s Food Cake with Butter Rum Frosting Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:50 PM EDT
The Best American Sports Writing

All the best sports stories of the year, from the expected places (Sports Illustrated, ESPN, newspapers) as well as the unexpected ones. Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:50 PM EDT
The Best Homes from This Old House

For those obsessed with the homes of others, a decade of big makeovers from the TV series, now between hard covers. Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:50 PM EDT
Temples of Cambodia

Barry Brukoff’s photographs of ancient Asian temples let you visit from your armchair—no machetes needed. Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:49 PM EDT
RecordSetter Book of World Records

The weirder records are here, like Longest Office Chair Chain Pulled by a Motorcycle (19) and Fastest Time to Open a Bag of Skittles and Sort Them by Color (21.95 seconds). Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:49 PM EDT
Houses by the Sea

Houses that hang over and butt up to every ocean—from Scandinavia to Europe to the shores of the United States. They’re modern and rustic, small and large, with plenty of ideas for decorating anywhere. Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:49 PM EDT
Guinness World Records 2012

Biggest nose, longest legs, most piercings — and 2,500 other records, photographed for eternity. Read More >>

Dec 02, 2011 12:48 PM EDT
Christmas with the First Ladies

Subtitled The White House Decorating Tradition from Jacqueline Kennedy to Michelle Obama, this book has the holiday trees, centerpieces, foods, and garlands of the past 50 years. Read More >>