Friends at My Table: A year of eating, drinking and making merry By Alice Hart - Food Books - Hardback

Alice Hart has perfected the art of feeding crowds, and in her new book she shows not only how to serve people memorable meals, but also how to host all sorts of gatherings in a relaxed and convivial way. From what kitchen kit you'll need to take to a music festival, how to multiply up the number of servings, or how to get around a shortage of cutlery or plates, the book contains all you need to know about the practical side of making large numbers of people feel comfortable and well fed, taking the stress out of organising, hosting and catering. And to make the occasions even more special, Alice also includes fabulously whimsical ideas for how to entertain your guests.

The book includes a diverse selection of party menus for each month of the year, although all the dishes can be taken out of context and served for simpler occasions. Break through February's gloom with a Honey-roast Beetroot and Carrot Salad served on a mezze evening complete with indoor games for a winter's night, or throw a beach barbecue in August and impress with Blueberry, Almond and Vanilla Choux Buns, with instructions for beach cricket and how to recognise clouds. Alice serves an eclectic mix of dishes from all around the world, but all are made simple and easy to prepare.

And these parties won't break the bank - being young, busy and hard-working, Alice understands the demands on her generation when it comes to being low on budget, time and space.