Last updated on December 30th, 2015
Several of you have asked about my cookbook. And specifically, when it will be available. Would you like to hear the latest update?
After 18 months of developing, writing, photographing, and testing (and tasting!) the recipes, and also after some terrific editing by Jennifer Josephy, my manuscript is finally complete. Alas, now comes the hard part — finding a publisher!
If you are a publisher of cookbooks, or if you know someone who knows someone who has an “in” with a publisher, I hope you’ll send me a note. Otherwise, I might have to learn a new skill: self-publishing.
The book contains over 100 recipes. I start with breakfast, and take you all the way to dessert. Also included are myriad hosting-tips. With these in your pocket, you can pull off a stylish event without breaking a sweat.
The chapters:
Breakfast and Brunch. Hosting a Sunday Brunch? Prepare one of my make-ahead brunch casseroles on Saturday night. The next morning, you’ll need only to turn on the oven before your guests arrive. Also included in this chapter: healthy granolas…sinful pancakes…colorful smoothies, and…and…and…
Afternoon Tea. Wanna live like British aristocracy even when you’re not? Then you must host a classy Afternoon Tea. You might be surprised to learn that traditional cream scones, small savory sandwiches, and attractive sweets can be prepared well in advance. Who needs Mrs. Patmore?
Make-Ahead Cocktail Appetizers. Be a guest at your own cocktail party! Just snip some fresh, fragrant herbs from your garden (or farmers market), and turn them into irresistible dips and spreads. Then whip up my easy, elegant, make-ahead canapés, and pour yourself a drink. Also included: The Ten Drinks Every Cocktail Party Host Should Know.
Slow Breads and Fast Breads. Because nothing beats the scent of bread dough as it bakes in the oven.
First Course Soups. I think a perfumed puree of a seasonal vegetable from the garden is the best (and also the easiest) way to start a dinner party. For cold-weather dining, I rely on butternut squash, garlic, and leeks. Warm weather invites lettuce and lovage, watercress, or a soup made from red bell peppers that is much more than the sum of its few ingredients.
Simple Suppers and Divine Dinners. Here are my favorite “mains,” from savory tarts and hearty stews to crepes filled with leftover meats and veggies. Because food-allergies and food-phobias are prevalent these days, I’ve included a number of main courses that will satisfy both vegetarians and the gluten-intolerant.
Desserts. Well, obviously this is the most important chapter in the book. I gained 25 pounds while writing it!
Folks, this book was an absolute joy to write. I’ll keep you posted on its availability!
Don’t miss anything at A Garden for the House…sign up for Kevin’s email updates.
Related Posts:
Angelic Zucchini Fritters
Piperade!
What to Winter-Sow…and When
Rod says
I can’t wait for your cookbook. I have made many of your recipes and have not had a fail on any of them. In fact they have all turned out great, with many compliments from my guests. Of course I always give credit where credit is due and hand on your website so they can enjoy it too. Good Luck with your publishing.
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Hi Rod – What a kind endorsement. Thank you.
Louise Brouillette says
Kevin, I’m so excited that you’re ready to publish. I know I’m not alone among your many blog readers who can’t wait to purchase your cookbook. Kudos on a great accomplishment, and best of luck finding the perfect publisher!
ingmarie peck says
I can’t wait for it to be published love tour recipes.
Delores Short says
I am looking soo forward to your cookbook!!! Love all your recipes —
Lucy says
Congratulations!!! I am looking forward to buying a copy of your cook book.
Rosiland Ball says
I swore off buying any more cookbooks EXCEPT for yours! Can not wait!
Leslie Thistle says
Looking forward to it! Any publisher would be lucky to have it, especially with a guarantee of an easy 10k sales as soon as it is in print!!
Ilene says
Congratulations!! Looking forward to a copy for myself and several friends…My your agent and publisher contact you later this evening…Blessings!
Joan C says
Cannot wait to have a copy of your cookbook in my hands. Will the book have many/most of the recipes on this blog? Really would love all of them in one pretty package.
Ellie B says
Would like a couple of copies… Can’t wait.
myttle miller says
Congratulations. What would be cool is if you had your own show where you could give your cooking demonstration and also give tips on gardening and do tours of your garden. You could contact your public broadcasting station and see if they have a spot for you. And you could play the piano too… After you get your book published try to get Barnes and Nobles to carry it.
Tammy says
Kevin, like the others who’ve commented here, I can’t wait to see your cookbook! There are a lot of us in your fan club and we will support you whatever publishing path you take.
Marilyn Elliott says
I’ve made several, too, including the tomato pie (very good!), the popovers (quick, easy and delicious!) and the Spicy Plum cake, which is great new favorite. Cannot believe you will find a publisher soon! Good luck!
Melodie says
I hope you are able to find a publisher soon! Can’t wait for your book!
Karen says
Love your blog and have been following for years! Your gardens are breath taking and I hope to visit next summer to see them in person (and meet you). Your recipes are always delicious! I can not wait to get a hold of your book!! Thank you for doing what you do 🙂
Andi Stewart says
Please consider going through Amazon’s self publishing program. Then you can let all of us know the book is available through them and we’ll all order!!! Good luck!
Sigrid says
I’ll buy a copy for sure and one more to give to my daughter as a gift. Love your blog!
Barb says
I have made many of your recipes over the last few years and all have turned out wonderful. Reading this post is hard because I want a copy NOW! Can’t wait!
Shirley B. says
Best of Luck, Kevin! I too recommend your website to many. Hope you find a publisher STAT!
Christine Thiessen says
I can’t wait either.
gina gillispie says
very exciting!
Kathleen says
I will purchase it!!!!
Brighid says
I am eagerly anticipating the publication of your book, as are my mum, several daughters, and numerous friends to whom I have introduced your blog and Facebook page.( I assume that the photos are taken by you, as well.)
All the best!
Linda Parker says
I’ll buy at least five copies!
badger gardener says
Congratulations on getting through the first part. I hope you find a publisher quickly so we can all start enjoying that cookbook : )
Liz J says
I am eagerly awaiting your book to be published…Can’t wait to buy one. I love your recipes and everything I have made has come out awesome. Best of luck to you Kevin.
Sarah says
Kevin, if someone doesn’t pick up your book pronto, I wouldn’t hesitate to self publish. We loyal fans CANT WAIT to purchase for ourselves and buy copies for our very best friends. Good luck and keep us posted. I’m off to fix a bowl of the delish Maple Blueberry Granola I made yesterday. Happy Sunday!
Adriana Fernandez says
Thanks to “llene” it seems we are close to get the cookbook! Keep us posyed! Fingers crossed!
Judy Hines says
Fantastic you are creating a cookbook with your recipe treasures.
Diane Hinkle says
You have many endorsements of recipes you have already shared with us. I hope someone knows a publisher personally so this work can come to fruition and we can have all your recipes under one cover and not on pieces of paper here and there. Good luck~~~~~
Dina says
Kevin – I always love your photos too, so I hope the cookbook is packed with visuals along with these delicious recipes. We want photos of the dishes of course, but also of your beautiful dining spreads with the gorgeous dishes, the gorgeous glassware, the gorgeous kitchen itself, the herb & kitchen garden, the roses, etc etc etc etc and last but not least a photo (and dedication I imagine) to the cheese-loving Beagle! Can’t wait for the book!
Carolyn Contois says
I have been researching this topic myself …(for a book about dogs)…self publishing may not be a bad way to go…. if the book is selling, you will be picked up by a publisher. They are always looking for work that sells. One of the better books on the subject….in my opinion…is LAUNCH by Jeff Walker…Anyway, if your book is half as good as your blog… it’ll be a hit!
kathleen says
good to know we will get that cookbook one way or another. And the pic with you rockin’ the watch/cuff/rainbow bracelet look will help you stand out from the rest of those authors smiling in their spotless aprons in pristine kitchens…so last year… 😉
Sherri says
I really wish I did know a publisher … I can’t wait for the book also.
Pat G. says
Thanks for keeping us up to date on how your cookbook is coming along. Any chance you might post a photo of the potential cover? Happy January.
Linda DeVona says
Kevin, your recipes are extremely well written, fun( I enjoy Lilly’s input and knowing which color spatula works best 🙂 ) and pleasing to the taste buds! You photographs are divine! If a publisher doesn’t come knocking on your door, begging you for the chance to be part of your book and it’s success, consider self publishing with Lulu! I think you would be able to sell them easily on Amazon!
You introduced me to the herb, tarragon, when you posted your chicken tarragon recipe. It was like a lightbulb going on…I’ve had much more fun in the kitchen ever since! Good luck!
Bev says
Can’t wait for your Cookbook!
Susan David is the owner of Monument Press & Digital Oatmeal. She has over 10 years experience as a Private Book Publisher. She is also a Graphic Artist, including digital content and web marketing. She can be contacted at [email protected]. I KNOW you’ll be delighted with her, and her work! She works directly with you to create the unique book you desire.
Bev
Anne in Vermont Zone 4/5 says
Hi Kevin,
A friend recently found a publisher for her first (and probably only) cookbook in Countryman Press in Vermnont. Like you she had a completed manuscript that she sent off only to hear from them within a week or so that they were very interested. They were also surprised to receive a full manuscript as apparently this is not usual. They asked her for photos of some of her dishes and her friends rallied to take the best ones possible and it went from there. You already have a selection of beautiful photos to submit. Since publication my friend’s book was picked up by QVC and she appeared on one of their shows as well as on Vermont Public Radio and other media outlet. I don’t know whether speaking to her about her experience would be helpful to you, but I would be happy to put the two of you in touch.
Congratulations on completing the manuscript.
Anne
Louise says
Count me in,, I love your site and I am sure the cookbook will be the greatest !! I have been telling my friends to join in on this fun 🙂
Keep it coming !!!
Julie says
Kevin, it seems to me that if you showed a publisher all these wonderful comments, they would be happy to publish you. They will know the book is going to sell! Best of luck, I wish I was a publisher.
Janice says
Kevin, check out this link for a good take on self-publishing by a blogger who raised funds via Kickstarter.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/20626480/the-yellow-table-cookbook
sidne teske says
Take a look at Gibbs Smith Publishing in Salt Lake City Utah. They publish beautiful table top books along with everything else but are a small company. Because of all the beautiful photos this might qualify as a table top book as well.
You might also contact some of the university presses close to you. They could at least give some tips on contacts.
A full MS is not usual for a publishing house to receive. PLEASE do not send anyone the only copy or the original copy!!!
And if you do decide to self-publish I want to be on your list when it’s for sale! Or proofing!!
Joni D. says
Is it done yet? Can hardly wait for the end result!! LOVE your recipes and tips for entertaining!!
Ceal Whalen says
Kevin,
I know what you are going through. My son is a gifted Historical Novel writer. So said his professors at Emerson College, Boston, MA , (undergrad) and Johns Hopkins University (Graduate studies, Baltimore, MD). He has written two dynamite books and is also trying to find a publisher.
He has been a part of a very prestigious Writer’s workshop (only 15 writers the country) during which he met several impressive agents, one of which is now representing him. With all good luck she will find him a publisher who finds him to be as great as the rest of us.
Do you have an agent?
Ceal Whalen
John says
I am so adding your cookbook to my collection!
Barbara says
I look forward each Sunday to receiving your newsletter and look forward to purchasing your cookbook. I do hope each receipe will include any do ahead tips. Thanks Kevin……
Karen says
I haven’t been interested in buying a cookbook in years but yours is one I am interested in. I love the way your recipes are ones I have not seen anywhere else, they are not complicated and they inspire me to want to try to make them. You make it look doable and easy. I have to say that all your recipes that I have tried have come out great and several of them I make over and over. They have become a part of my families staples.
Carol says
Your cookbook sounds absolutely amazing, Kevin, can’t wait to see it in print! I especially appreciate that you’ve included Breakfast…and the way to Dessert + tips and cocktails – a very unique and helpful approach. 🙂
ArtistryFarm says
Waiting for that cookbook! Thanks for your excellent living info all these years.
Replacing refined grains with whole-grains can reduce a person’s chance of heart disease by 15% (just heard research this week) so I’d like to see more whole grains used in your recipes; no, they don’t behave the same as refined grains, but what’s our priority?
It’s the same mind-set as going to the farmers market and cooking with whatever healthy food we find there, instead of expecting to find exactly what we want!
Happy New Year…
della says
Good luck with the new book. Hope it gets publish soon. Just love all the recipes & tips that you have on your site. Wish I live closer would love to come to your house for meals & party’s.
Ann says
Can’t wait for your cook book…everything looks so delicious and I LOVE your blue and white china…………..
Mary says
Kevin, your magazine is a joy to read every Sunday! And even though I’m allergic to every grain under the sun (boo – hissssss) I salivate over your recipes. Congratulations! My heart’s doin’ a little happy dance!
Bev Nolan says
I don’t know a thing about publishing but you have the perfect spot here for a “pre-sale list” and I am definitely on it!
Dennis says
Try contacting Richard Frisbee in Saugerties, he writes for The Hudson Valley, and has a nice little bookstore. He may have some friends who publish. Good Luck.
SueEllen says
Well, I am joining Mary with a “Happy Dance”!! So looking forward to purchasing your cookbook and being able to cook some “delish” delights for my family!!
Blessings to you and yours, SueEllen
Elaine says
Can’t wait to buy a copy of your cookbook. Have you thought of contacting Trade Schools or Technical Schools to see if that’s something they can do. Our local trade school use to print our town reports with black & white photos, but that over 10 yrs ago and technology has come so far.
And we all love the beautiful photos in cookbooks. You will find the perfect publisher !
Repeat 3 times daily.
Lynn says
Love the Kickstarter idea, and if you will let us all know if that is the way you are going, I’m sure all your fans will contribute. Here’s another name Clarkson Potter. They publish Ina Garten’s cookbooks; you couldn’t be in better company.
Good luck. Love your blogs
Jimmie Lindsey says
Like your many minions, I too am thrilled that your master piece is ready for publication! Hoping a publishing house snaps you up quickly. The cooking/home show premises would be a natural for one of your many talents. Count me in for at least 3 copies when it hits the press. Congratulations & Best of luck in all your endeavors!
Marilyn R. says
Congrats on completing your cookbook! I, as so many others have already posted, am excited about adding your cookbook to my collection. With so many cookbooks on the market I have been very selective about which books to purchase. Yours will be added to my collection. And it makes a wonderful gift. Good luck in your search for a publisher.
Pat says
Where do we sign-up for the pre-buy? Good luck…
Molly says
Looking forward to your cookbook and having all the recipes right at hand. Every recipe of yours has been a great success and I hear the same from friends. Some smart publisher will scoop you up.
Valerie C. says
I will buy several! What about QVC? I do not know how these things work, but, have seen several new cook book authors on that channel. I don’t know if QVC gets involved as the publisher or not, although they sell so many 🙂
Enid Albat says
Publishers I know aren’t cookbooks, but I did forward a link to someone who would know someone. I always believed the 2 degrees theory, not six…
Cheryl says
Hi, I can’t wait!
Love your recipes, and use them often. Hope you get a publisher soon!
C. Vick says
Thomas Nelson Press in Nashville, Tennessee did a nice job on Benita Long’s two
cookbooks—Come to the Table and Share the Bounty………. Beautiful flowers, lovely
china and serving pieces and fabulous recipes……. The books are pretty enough to be
Coffee Table books, but they are too good to take out of the kitchen……… Check them out.
Chuck says
Sonoma Williams publishes. I suspect they use a NY publishing house. If so, take off a day, drive to NY and get a name, be aggressive and even if having to share an elevator or a Taxi with him/her, sell your idea to him. Nuts to this business of having to go thru an agent. Your stuff (photography, recipes, comments, humor, home, yard, beagle, cookng utensil descriptions, etc.) need to be on Sonoma Williams shelves. Self published won’t get you the exposure you need, nor give the rest of North America the opportunity to know you as we who follow you do. I’m in. Writers group, I know all these moronic games played to get published. You and your husband get a plan, then work it thru, it means Face to Face conversations with editors and publishers, none of this submit, wait to see, rejection letter stuff. No. Your stuff is so good that you don’t actually realize it. It’s Sonoma Williams good. That’s what! Go for it. Market that book, do guest signings and get on The NY morning Talk Shows: that chick that cooks, Rachel someone; those two that replaced KathyLee (gag) and Regis., etc. Heck, I’ll fly to NYC and be a spokesman for you, I know to command a presence and sell this book for ya. Think and dream big. Your stuff is great. Get on that Growing a Greener World show, ask to present at the Colonial Williamsburg Garden Syposium yearly. Be a guest at the Philadelphia Flower Show, etc., it’s all about self promotion, not self publishing. Go for it! All the best to you.
Nancy W says
I can’t wait for your book to come out! Hope all goes smoothly with you next steps! Keep us informed!
Ksb says
Acquaintance of mine self-published through a Kickstarter Campaign. “Roads Were Not Built for Cars”. Roadswerenotbuiltforcars.com
Beverly, zone 6, eastern PA says
I hope there will be a picture of Lily in the cook book.
And maybe a recipe for organic dog biscuits?
Georgette says
I am so excited about your cookbook it’s hard to stay inside my skin. I made several of your dishes and never a complaint only compliments. You have such a unique way of writing that many who have not bought a cookbook in years will buy yours because it is so much more than a cookbook. I know you will do well when it is released.
Helga G says
I definitely don’t need another cook book, but I’ll buy yours. I made several of your recipes, smoothies, cakes, cookies and even your “Zucchini Fritters” and they are “Kid-approved” by my finicky Grandchildren.
Amanda Merritt says
Who needs Mrs. Patmore? I do! Until there’s a Daisy/Mrs. Patmore spinoff, I’m relying on you for recipies. Every one of yours that I’ve tried has been great. Keep looking for that publisher!
Paula says
Sounds Delicious! Could Hay House help you? They also have a self publishing arm, I think it’s called Baboa Press? or something like that.. Good luck and best wishes to you, I look forwarding to seeing the finished book!
Ana says
I have so many cookbooks I promised myself I would not buy another one but nothing will keep me from this one. You write beautifully with a respect for the lost art of grammar. Your pictures are clean and to the point. Most importantly, you are a great teacher. I am an older cook and there have been so many times when I have read about or heard about a cooking method or idea but could not create it in my kitchen because I did not thoroughly understand the concept. You, however, explained it so that I could easily duplicate it at home. Any publisher would be lucky to have your book.
Jeanne Collins says
I’m hoping you include an easy way to locate gluten free items?
Dana Hutchinson says
I cannot wait for your cookbook, the chocolate pie looks so mouth watering, I could use a bite right about now…mmmm!
LynnB says
Congratulations on getting your manuscript finished. I can’t wait and I’d certainly fly to NYC to support you (from Australia hahahahahaha). Unfortunately I don’t know anyone in the publishing world – sorry – but I do hope you find someone soon.
Denise in Colorado says
I’m visualizing you getting this cookbook published, and selling a million copies! (Starting with all your loyal readers…) and next maybe a gardening and home decorating book?! 🙂
Kat says
I am thrilled that you have written a cookbook. Even though I no longer buy any cookbooks that aren’t gluten free recipes-I will DEFINITELY be buying yours! Good luck, hope you can get a great publisher interested . Can’t wait to here when it will become a reality.
Kat says
Oops, I was so excited I spelled hear wrong in my post. Sorry.
Patti Martin says
I don’t buy many cookbooks these days…… I have quite a collection (which I need to thin).
This cook book is one I want, though, because I love your recipes and the delightful and unique way that you present them. I think it will be one of those that will become well-used and loved. I look forward to it being published!
ktmm says
I’m with Patti ^^^. I love the way that you present the food and give us the step by step on the prep. I always thought of crusts as too much work, but you have made them simple as…. PIE. LOL. I can’t wait to see the cookbook and will definitely be buying this one!
Saira says
Hi Kevin,
Love your blog and everything on your site. Really hope your book will be available in the UK!
Myself and several friends would definitely buy it!
Good luck 🙂
Ed Morrow says
From what I’ve tried, you’ve go the makings of a real winner.
Give yourself a couple of months to find a publisher, if one doesn’t materialize then take a crack at self-publishing.
Good luck
chris mergener says
Hi Kevin, If I could publish your cookbook, I would do it! I love the recipes that you post and all the other helpful info you have on your website. I hope that someone comes along for your cookbook. I can’t wait to see it in print.
Pat D says
I am with this group. So excited and looking forward to your cookbook.
Helen Gildea says
Am really looking forward to your beautiful book! Planning to buy at least one. WIll make wonderful gifts!
Charlotte says
Kevin, I am just as excited about your cook book as all your other loyal followers are, and can’t wait to get one in my hands. Prayers that you find a publisher soon as I am waiting with baited breath. Love all you do for us.
Susi says
Wish I were well- connected, but if you need endousements from your fans, count me in! Can’t wait to buy!
despina says
I cannot wait as a complete photographed reference is a wonderful way to walk through one of your recipes.
Lyne Barnes says
Awesome, Cannot wait for it to be ready for purchase.
Linda says
Good luck. Your recipes are great.
Lori Mancini says
I have an addiction to cookbooks, and cannot wait for yours to come out. I have tried many of your recipes. Usually when I find a recipe that looks good I try it the way it is first then end up changing things for my taste. I rarely have to change a thing with one of yours. I follow you on Facebook as well as get your newsletter every week. You always bring a smile to my face. The only problem is I am going to need a bigger kitchen because I want all the handy gadgets and tools you recommend. And if I do get one I will be looking to you and your blogs for decorating ideas.
Lee says
I want one no matter who publishes it. It will be a big hit. Good luck finding the right one.
angela miller says
Hi there:
I’m a literary agent who specializes in cookbooks and I see that your recipes are phenomenal. I also know Jennifer Josephy very well, so I bet everything is in ship shape. I’d love to help you find a publisher.
Best,
Angela
Sandra from WA says
Kevin,
I look forward to the weekends to enjoy your newsletter. I enjoy your gardening tips as well as the cooking! I am not familiar with your blog yet.
Count me in to purchase your cookbook. Good luck!
Sandra
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Hi Angela – Email coming your way!
Anne Schomaker says
Paul would be so proud of you. Congratulations on completing your cookbook.
Julie Dietz says
You should look into funding publication on Kickstarter.com!
Sonia says
I’m really enjoying your website! Please sign me up for four cookbooks! Kickstarteer is a great idea. Good Luck!