A vine-ripened, juicy delight of a book from Gary Ibsen, founder of the renowned TomatoFest celebration in Carmel, California. Heirloom tomatoes are hot right now, and Ibsen gives history and cultivation information for such sweet delights as Radiator Charlie's Mortgage Lifter, Boxcar Willie's, and Aunt Ruby's Yellow Cherry, among others. With 40-plus festival standout recipes, including Mu Shu Tomato Pillows on Spicy Slaw, Baked Tomato Tart, and, of course, Old-Fashioned Fried Green Tomatoes.

Joan Nielsen is a cookbook editor, food writer, and co-author. She lives is Pacific Palisades, California.