The Kitchen Diaries (Studio, $40) invite us to spend a year in the kitchen of the beloved chef Nigel Slater. Known throughout the UK for his cooking shows and literature, Slater is widely considered to be the best food writer today. For me the reason for this is simple: Slater loves food. He loves it in a way that makes it precious and dear, and his writing makes the reader feel the same way. Reading his words about a particular dish, a favorite meal, or a time when he gathered with friends over beer and snacks will make you regret that you could not be there—regretful that you missed both the food and the pleasure of his friendship. The words are beautiful. The recipes are tried and true. The Kitchen Diaries is a must read for any foodie.