For the Catholic housewife in particular, but for anyone who would wish to pick up some traditional culinary lore along with short, fairly simple recipes, this charming compilation of custom, tradition and everyday and festive dishes with emphasis on Catholic religious observances will prove serviceable. Beginning with a saint's calendar on appropriate culinary dedications (for example, Irish soda bread in honor of St. Patrick, Summer Apple Cake for St. Swithin, waffles for St. Michael), the author proceeds to some no-nonsense fish dishes, (without fussing around with too many spices); Lenten dishes (happily easy to prepare); dishes for Holy Days with an introduction of prayers and legends with menus and simplified traditional recipes. Secular holidays are celebrated too, -- Fourth of July (menu for a barbecue and strawberry shortcake); New Year's Day (roast beef and Yorkshire Pudding); Thanksgiving Day (begins with ""Tokay Grapes in Ginger Ale""). Party recipes, special occasion and foreign dishes with guest contributors from the clergy included.