I wrote this book originally for a man friend who had recently moved into a flat on his own and whose culinary skills were limited to opening a can of beans, buttering a couple of slices of toast, and eating.

Then last year, my son rang me up and asked me for some of his favorite recipes from when he lived at home, so I brushed up the contents, added instructions for the dishes he liked most, and sent it off to him.

I gather it was well received, so now I've done a complete revision, making sure that every recipe in Simply Easy Recipes has both Metric and regular quantities and temperatures, and that the step by step instructions are clear and easy to follow.

Please note, this is not a gourmet recipe book. How many of us eat the glossy confections punted by Guru Chefs anyway? This is basic easy cooking that could set you on the path to greatness, I guess, but could just as easily let you feed yourself and your family with the minimum of fuss.

Bon appetit!