Maria Costantino was born in Chicago, Illinois and has written such other titles as The Handbook: Household Hints & Tips, DIY Encyclopedia, First Aid Pocket Guide and many other books on food, drink, art, design and fashion. She teaches Historical, Critical and Theoretical Studies at several universities and colleges in England, and now lives by the sea in Sussex. Gina Steer was a cookery editor, writer and broadcaster of many years’ experience. She wrote and contributed to a wide range of cookbooks and publications for many different publishers, including the Simple Cookery, Let’s Cook and Quick and Simple cookery series for Flame Tree.