While the subtitle of Potluck Survival Guide is Care and Feeding of the Athletic Supporter (yes, I'm sure the pun is deliberate), this yum-filled book of recipes and more is not just for families feeding voracious young athletes. The recipes are suited to any bring-a-dish occasion, whether it be a swim meet, softball game, extended practice (sports, music, theater, etc.), church, Bible study, or any other get-together.

(Actually, I'm using some of the recipes just for our own family; they're that easy, healthy, and delicious. The Sloppy Joes recipe is a favorite around here, just for starters.)

Recipe categories include appetizers, breakfast, entrees, soups and sandwiches, side dishes, salads, and desserts. Each of the categories has subcategories, for example, appetizer dips, and spreads, as well as finger foods; or entrees made from beef, chicken, or pork; or vegetable salads versus entree salads or fruit salads.

The introduction to the book gives some background to the author's purpose for writing, as well as encouragement in planning a group function. Pages of planning suggestions follow including: menu planning, special considerations (feeding children, who can be fussy, for one thing), feeding athletes before or after a game, even plans for food to be eaten on a bus trip or in the car on the way to activities. The author also offers buffet tips and strategies, including food safety considerations along with decorations, fun, and good food.

I like the practical tone of the book. For example, the author discusses cooked chicken and the different options: canned, rotisserie, cook it yourself. There's a discussion of deviled eggs (a potluck stand-by, ranging from simple to luxurious) and another on meatloaf -- so many options! Other basics covered in the "basics" chapter are pasta, roasted vegetables, salad dressings, and frittatas (the latter is another weekend favorite of ours, where we use up whatever fresh veggies need to be used up, and it's never the same twice).

You'll encounter the occasional can of creamed soup among the ingredients lists, but many of the recipes are made from scratch, from healthy ingredients, just the way I like to cook. The instructions are clearly written, and many of the recipes include notes with substitutions and tips for a successful, popular result. Each recipe includes serving quantities (most are suited to family-size meals) and tips for multiplying the meal for potluck portions.

Highly recommended.