Cover came banged up, but as one says, you can’t judge a book by its cover. Time-Life Cooking Series are unique because, besides the spiral-bound recipe booklets, the Hardcover books are especially about the culture and history of the country’s/regional cuisine, and they are very informative!I replaced a worn-out copy that I had since the early '70s. Worn-out because I used it so much. The recipes are easy to follow and authentic. The Sacher Torte is, if anything, better than the one you get at the Hotel Sacher (less dry).If you truly love cooking, there are some fun recipes for special occasions.It got here quickly and in great shape. Thanks a bunch, Suzette! Its exactly as described and has all that I was looking for! Plus its hard to get and I'm glad I got it!Purchased for my sister and it was like baking for German class all over again.Wonderful ~ composite of recipes, pictures, and history, all in one book!It's good just wish I could be allowed to cook dinnerWonderful book.Fantastic. Thank you.