If you're convinced you can't even cook something simple, well, there's no need for self-immolation. After all, why should you be able to cook? There is no magic wand waved over every new-born (female) baby to guarantee she's going to be the next Delia, nor any blessing of every (male) child with David Beckham's right foot.
That's where this book comes in. It is for people who love eating but need recipes for inspiration and instruction. And not just recipes, but information about where to buy particular foods; why one ingredient might be better than another; which equipment is most useful, or will best stand the test of time; and how to deal with tricky things like squid or scallops.
This book is also for the millions of working people who don't want to cook much during the week, but are quite happy to spend a few hours in the kitchen at the weekend. It can be very difficult to summon up the energy to cook when you've been toiling away all day in the office.
The bottom line is simple: if something tastes good, and if the recipe is one that you've been able to follow without bursting into tears of frustration, then the preparation can be almost as pleasurable as the eating. Almost - let's not get too carried away!
