Russ & Daughters: Reflections and Recipes from the House That Herring Built Hardcover – March 5, 2013 by Mark Russ Federman (Author), Calvin Trillin (Foreword), (Schocken)

After living in New York forty-five years, born in Brooklyn, and spending most of my life there, there are special memories one can never forget. As a child growing-up with my cousins and my relatives all living in different sections of Brooklyn, everyone knew the famous name of 'Russ & Daughters.' When I think of one of New York's finest stores, this name has its amazing history. This incredible book tells the triumphant story of an immigrant beginning a family business that became the talk of the century, and a respected, famous name that anyone from New York could relate to. The heartwarming story delivers a colorful portrait of where it all began to good times, and bad times as well. 

The generations of family, the devotion, and the fight to keep it going through times of struggle and the Great Depression is an unforgettable story of remarkable family tradition. My Dad, and my aunts and uncles always raved about the service it provided to the community, even during changing times within the neighborhoods. You didn't have to be Jewish to appreciate this appetizer store, known to many as a farmer's market for smoked and pickled fish. The journey for the family tradition was as exciting and delightful as much as all the regular customers enjoyed visiting this store, and Sundays it became a conversational social event for many. One hard-working family began the business, and through all the years of tough times, it kept going as it continued to grow more-and-more admiration. The older folks today, who grew up in Brooklyn, remember very well how enchanting and inspiring this tradition became to millions of people over the years. The reminiscences of family history is motivating as it brings a smile to many who understand its symbolic background. In addition, there are delicious recipes that are as enjoyable as the intriguing story. When I think of salmon, chopped liver, cream cheese and pickled fish,'Russ & Daughters' leave behind refreshing memories of tradition. Martha Stewart portrays the true "Russ & Daughters." They are remembered as a legacy. One of my favorites from this book is the mouth-watering Potato Latkes. Enjoyable read, entertaining from beginning to end, with stunning photos of recipes, and family. Highly recommended!