I got this book back in 1995 when it was first published, I can't imagine it was that long ago because the book is still in such great condition. Not that I don't use it, on the contrary, I use it at least once a week. The pictures are lovely but the recipes are the real gems. Philip B. was the first to introduce me to the thought of using flavor extracts, which really do work nicely. Some of the ingredients are not what you would find in your cupboard but they are not so exotic you need a round trip ticket to Bali. Everything can be found in your super market or right here on the net. I highly recommend it!