Halloween Tricks and Treats by Matthew Mead
When I discovered Matthew Mead at Country Home magazine years ago, I became an instant fan. I’m always on the lookout for his latest decorating and design ideas, and follow his Web site religiously. So it’s no surprise that I was thrilled to find out he came out with a new book celebrating one of my favorite holidays … Halloween. When my son noticed the book in the kitchen, he started thumbing through it, folding down page after page of things we could do together in the coming days before Halloween.
Filled with Halloween snack ideas, decorating tips, party ideas and crafts for your whole family, the ideas range from the very simple to the simply more elaborate. The Chalkboard Pumpkin? So simple, yet so ingenious. And the Orange Hot Chocolate — so festive. Over 120 pages of fun are packed into this hardbound, full-color book; you’ll find yourself turning to it again and again. There are also some templates for the content in the back of the book, however not for everything.
The only detractors for me? There are a few pictures in the book that are surprisingly a little fuzzy (page 66 is a good example), although the rest of the book features gorgeous photography. Some of the ideas that seem simple don’t include detailed directions. For example, the Witch Pizza on page 61 is a great idea and one that we will be doing, but it says to cut the pizza into the shape of the witch. Their witch looks great. No way could I do that freehand myself. Would have been nice for a template or step-by-step instructions to be included for those less artistic. But quite honestly, these are small things and should not deter you from purchasing the book.
The book is so packed with ideas that, although it can be used only once a year, there is enough content that we will be turning to it again and again and again. It contains ideas that you can do it minutes (Squeamish Napkin Rings), some that are a little more elaborate (13 Days of Trick or Treats - love!), some too cute (Lost Souls) and much more (Screamwiches anyone?), so it is perfect for every skill level and interest. If there is a Matthew Mead fan club, sign me up!
P.S. You can preview some of the book right here and a number of free downloadable Halloween templates right here. And Matthew also has another new book out as well, Entertaining Simple.
Retails for $19.99, and available at your favorite bookseller or from Amazon.
