A Yorkshire Lad – Brian Turner

This book tells Brian Turner's life story to date, focusing on his working life. More an autobiography than a cookbook - although recipes and food photographs try to pull it into the latter category - his introduction states clearly that it is aimed at those interested in the possibilities of the catering industry, which he has loved and worked in for 40 years.

It is an easy book to read, with Turner's chatty, informal style, natural humour and frankness making compelling reading. The chapters are in chronological order, interspersed with recipes and colour photographs. I found this slightly disconcerting as it tended to break up the written passages of the story.

While the recipes are aimed more at chefs, they are clearly laid out, with an appendix at the back giving basic recipes for the less experienced home cook. Turner says simplicity is his watchword and that he relies on fine produce and good sauces, which may encourage the enthusiastic amateur.

The book gives an honest insight into his life as a chef - indeed, as a celebrity chef. It illustrates a range of issues from his own experiences, including the difficulties of obtaining the right job, career moves, running a kitchen as head chef, setting up business and choosing business partners. As these all tend to be interrelated, he also demonstrates how difficult it is to keep everyone happy - bank managers, business partners, staff and, most importantly, family.

Turner's book will go some way to achieving its aim, although he perhaps should have added a note to aspiring chefs: "You get nowt for nowt."

by David Wilson, chef-proprietor, the Peat Inn, Cupar, Fife

A Yorkshire Lad - Brian Turner. Headline Book Publishing, £18.99.
ISBN 0-7472-7366-9