Edited by J. Michael Bell
Shepherd Wellness Community

There is something delightfully fishy about this benefit cookbook. J. Michael Bell has gathered recipes from the most diverse group of people you could imagine -- some you’d never expect to see pinning a red ribbon to their “Kiss the Cook” apron.

Who are the participants in this wacky bake-off? Pope John Paul’s stunning Polish Paczki goes head to head with Ashley Judd’s Perfect Biscuits. Stephen King’s Lunchtime Gloop is a whimsical compliment to the chicken pot pie recipe entered by none other than Sen. Jesse Helms. And make sure the birds are caged when Tippi Hedren comes over to bake her Marnie’s Red Velvet Cake. Hope it’s better than Marnie.

Even if the idea of inviting your friends over for a little nosh that Elizabeth Taylor threw together doesn’t appeal, the fact is that this is a quality cookbook. And you can feel good about it too. Proceeds go to support the Shepherd Wellness Community, a Pennsylvania-based group that organizes biweekly dinners and drop-in dining centers for people with HIV and those who break bread with them. Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve had a taste of Judge Wapner’s Au Gratin Potatoes.