The Complete Starter Guide to Making Bread author Kathryn Hawkins understands the importance of providing clear, concise, and easy-to-follow instructions for creating the perfect loaf of bread. Chapters include the history of bread and breadmaking, essential ingredients and equipment, basic techniques, and troubleshooting. The more than 25 recipes include Irish soda bread, wholewheat loaf, focaccia, Bao buns, and cornbread. The informative "How-to" section covers topics including kneading and proofing and provides tips and tricks for making bread gluten-free, vegan, or with a sugar substitute.

Kathryn Hawkins is an experienced cooking writer, food stylist, and home economist. She has authored more than 20 books on baking and natural food, including Bread!; Chocolate!; Crepes, Waffles and Pancakes!; and Comfort Pie. Kathryn was cookery editor at Woman's Own magazine and has worked on a wide range of consumer publications. She also prepares food for photography used in advertising, packaging, poster campaigns, and online.