Well-done book on joys of 'Cooking for One'

THE PLEASURES OF COOKING FOR ONE. By Judith Jones. Knopf. 273 pages. $27.95.

If you've faced some kind of household downsizing, temporary or permanent, or if you have food tastes that are different from others in your household and have struggled to scale down beloved recipes to one serving, Judith Jones' book is a godsend.

Likewise, if you're cooking for one or two but using recipes built for four, six or eight, and are tired of eating the same casserole all ... week ... long, this book is ideal.

With practical cooking tips from Julia Child's editor as well as innovative and interesting ideas for stretching groceries, "The Pleasures of Cooking for One" should be a welcome addition to any home cook's bookshelf.

Though you may not be interested in every recipe (not everyone will jump to make veal kidneys or calf's liver) you'll find a wealth of options and practical tips in this relatively compact volume.

If you never thought you could make quiche for one, Jones will change your mind.

There's a certain thrill and freedom in cooking for yourself, and Jones' writing exudes that whether she's relating a tale of finding an unusual fish to use or encouraging the reader on omelet-flipping or bread-baking techniques.

Plus, as she points out, if a recipe doesn't go exactly as planned, you're the only one who knows.