Cake Boss by Buddy Valastro

Viewers of TLC's hit show, Cake Boss,  will be delighted to discover that Buddy Valastro, the genial host, has written his memoir.  Those not familiar with the show will also quickly become engaged in reading Buddy's life story.  Scumptious recipes, gorgeous photographs of the finished products and a great memoir make this a book to enjoy and share.

Buddy is the product of a traditional Italian family.  His family have been bakers for many generations, and he knew from a child that becoming a pastry/cake baker was the life he wanted.  The book traces the Valastro family history.  We get to follow the immigration of the family on both sides from Italy to America and hear how they became successes at their Italian bakery.

When Buddy took over, he made some changes that improved the family business while maintaining the traditional Italian fare his customers had grown up loving.  He changed ingredients and expanded the cake decoration and custom cake part of the business.  Part of the change was the expansion of the business as Buddy makes a splash in the national bridal magazines, and finally on the TV show that has made the bakery a recognized business nationwide.  Regardless of the changes, the same core values continue the success of the business; love of family, hard work and the determination to send every customer home happy.

In addition to the engaging memoir, the book includes the recipes that made Carlo's Bakery famous.  There are recipes for traditional Italian pastries, cookies, cupcakes and cakes.  Along with the recipes are tips on kitchen equipment, quality ingredients, and cooking techniques.  This book is recommended for cooks everywhere and for readers interested in a feel-good, interesting story.