"Entertaining With the Sopranos"
as compiled by Carmela Soprano (Warner Books, $29.95)
Reviewed by Larry Cox

When "The Sopranos Family Cookbook" was published four years ago, it was a runaway hit and even topped the New York Times list of bestsellers. The latest effort, which is being released just in time to mark the show's sixth season premiere, promises to be equally popular.

Reminiscent of the first book, "Entertaining With the Sopranos" is a complete guide to good food and hosting the perfect event. The advice and information are served up with intimate vignettes, sidebars, stories and ruminations on food, friends and togetherness.

Some of the more interesting recipes are Goodootz Giambotta, a hearty zucchini stew; a delicious traditional Cannelloni; and Carmela's Lasagne With Basil Leaves. The dishes are guaranteed to bring tears of joy to the eyes of even a hardened gangster.

From graduation parties to holiday gatherings, Carmela suggests how to pick just the right location, decorations, music and even drinks for the occasion. The book also contains dozens of illustrations gleaned from the television series and insightful commentaries from various cast members and intimates.

For example, for those unsure about wine, Artie Bucco, proprietor of the renowned Nuovo Vesuvio restaurant in Newark, N.J., advises that if you have steak, think red, as in a nice robust California Burgundy. Planning a wedding? No problem. Camela's sister-in-law, Janice Soprano Baccvilieri, suggests that guests might enjoy a wishing well where they could deposit gifts or deep thoughts about life and love.

As Carmela writes, "What's closer to a celebration of life than celebrations?" Indeed, and her new guide makes even the trickiest occasion a snap.

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