Customer Reviews

Colette's Birthday Cakes

5 star:		(17)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Colette Peters is a master of cake design and artistry. She shows us that baking can transcend the limits of the kitchen, and delve into the canvas and paints of the artist. It is no surprise to discover that Miss Peters is a trained artist. It is also not a surprise to discover that her work graces the tables of Bette Midler, the White House, and Tiffany's at Christmastime.

This brightly-colored book is arranged topically: Signs of the Zodiac (12 designs), Flowers of the Month (4 designs), Birthstones (3 designs), and Assorted Party Cakes (14 designs). There are also two chapters devoted to Basic Recipes and Basic Instructions. Miss Peters has thoughtfully included a list of Sources for equipment and supplies at the back of the book.

Each design includes: Number of Servings, List of Ingredients, paragraph-form instructions on how to assemble and decorate the cake, a full-color photograph, and patterns (most patterns require enlargements).

While the instructions are specific, and basic instructions at the back of the book are extensive, I would not consider this a book for the beginning cake decorator. More advanced and intermediate cake decorators will enjoy creating their own cakes based on these ideas. This is a wonderful gift for the aspiring cake decorator.

Last August I, along with people from across the U.S. and around the globe, had the pure pleasure of sitting in a class taught by Colette Peters during the 1999 I.C.E.S. Annual Convention (International Cake Exploration Society) held in Kansas City, Missouri. There she announced that her new book would be available in the Spring of 2000. Rest assured that this cake baker from Oklahoma was not alone in anticipating the arrival of this book. Whether you enjoy creating cakes for your friends and family or for paying customers, Colette's fresh new ideas will inspire you, no matter what your skill-level or experience may be. Her talents are obvious with each new cake and cleverly displayed through beautiful pictures. She has incorporated several well-known cake decorating techniques along with her own special touches to come up with original ideas sure to strike your fancy. The instructions that accompany each cake are consistantly clear and easy to follow. Be sure to add this one to your collection of cake decorating books.

colette peters is not only a fabulous cake stylist but also the best and most imaginative artist in the field. She has an unlimited imagination and her book reflects this talent. Her instructions are detailed and do not leave out a bit of information...she is generous in her willingness to share all her secrets for creating her wonderful masterpieces!

The other reviews are correct; this book is not for the beginner. Nor is it for people who prefer to do piping decorating as every cake featured uses fondant and sugar paste. Although you could possibly take some ideas from it and it is fun looking at all these amazing cakes, some of them are so far out there (like a chess set or leather doctor's bag) you better be a really skilled home baker with a lot of time or a pro. I will say that the book is so nicely done (hardback, color, design and layout) that it almost feels like a nice coffee table book.

I bought this book in London. Photos show me how the cake should look when finished. Of course, these photos get my own imagination working for my own individuality to play along different designs. The separate drawings / letterings are a GREAT help. ...and let me say I had more than a few chuckles from the great wit used in the writing. WAY to GO! Colette!

I love this book! I stumbled on it at the bookstore (it was mis-shelved) & ended up buying it instead of the "20/30 Fat & Fiber Diet Plan" I was going to. (Salvation!) Anyway, although my cake expertise is mostly regulated to Duncan Hines mixes & canned frosting glopped on with a spoon...I once wrote 'Happy Birthday' on a cake with a tube of frosting, but it looked like 'Hoppy Bugday' & my son still remembers it as the bug cake.... I found this a wishbook of cakes; page after page of inspiration & magical ideas----and I think even I could manage the cake of rice krispies treats. All I know is, I'm sure enjoying this book more than I would have the Fat & Fiber one!

This book has very beautiful cakes in it.It is definately not for a beginner or even an intermediate cake decorator.

I am finding books by Colettes Peters to be excellent! They are colorful and whimsy and very different from othhers I have seen. I love to look at the pictures and imagine what wonderful occassion is made better even by presentation of a cake such as these ones. I am a beginner only but dream to make such beautiful cakes as I learn. These are special you bet!

...There are some new techniques in this book I have not seen elsewhere and the humour and creativity of Colette shine through on every page.

Some people are happy with liver sausage.

Some of us prefer foie gras.

This book has lots of great ideas. Its just not what I expected. I love colette's newer work and i think shes incredibly talented BUT this book lacks INTEREST.The best cake was the one on the cover.. Also the cakes seem extremely time consuming using tons of Fondant. I hate to sound so negative because there are good ideas but i dont think i'll be making many of these cakes. But i will use some of the techniques she uses.