Lindsey Bareham wrote this book when her son Zach first went to university and wanted to take some of her recipes with him. It has since been the book of choice for students and beginners everywhere. Full of simple, unpatronising, no nonsense recipes that really hit the spot, it is a brilliant first cookbook for people of any age but particularly for students who may not have the money or inclination to cook but still want really good food.

* If you've got a vast appetite but no money you'll discover how to eat like a king on a pauper's budget

* It has recipes for when you're on your own and for when you've got friends round for a feast

* There's almost instant food and food that cooks itself while you're out

* Easy pasta, easy stir fries, easy things on toast, easy stews . . .