The Art of Picnics: Seasonal Outdoor Entertaining (Picnic Ideas, Party Cooking, Outdoor Entertainment)

I love food and I love the outdoors in every season, which makes Alanna O’Neil‘s "The Art of the Picnic” a perfect go-to for me. I was first attracted to it by the gorgeous photography and the ideas they immediately inspired; I had to have this book! It did not disappoint. In fact, it has exceeded my expectations as I was only expecting a beautiful book with good recipes, but also found within its pages lovely stories from Alanna‘s childhood and life that brought me to a timeless and magical place. Too good to be true? Impractical? No…because within the romance of these pictures, recipes and stories lies serious practical advice for ways to make it all happen and easily come together — which I appreciate so very much, thank you. My car will never leave the driveway again without a picnic basket with the essentials… just in case life takes me to an impromptu picnic in a park or scenic byway. I’ll be ready! Thank you, Alanna.

Bought this book after a recommendation during an outdoor dinner party. I have to admit that I'm pretty sure my friend served us recipes from this book and took credit for them. The recipes are easy enough that a novice like myself could execute, but wow anyone you are entertaining. The photography really helps portray what these recipes are all about, friends, outdoors and good times.So glad I got this recommendation. And to the author Alanna, if you're reading this, sorry, but I too may take credit for the recipes I serve during dinner parties in the backyard. But I'll be sure to recommend your book!

I pre-ordered my book and was so excited to received it not to long ago. I read it from front to back! I must say that Alanna has such a warm and thoughtful approach and her photography beautifully captivates each outdoor picnic experience. I haven't tried all of the recipes yet but the ones I have tried are truly delicious! It is fall in New Hampshire and what a perfect time to have a bonfire with friends and what better event to make her Swiss Chard Stuffed Bread, Oatmeal Date Bars and Peach Lemonade ( I spiked it with Vodka). All were such a big hit! Thank you, Alanna, for sharing your story, your experiences and your Art of Picnics! I LOVE this book!

I just want to say this book does not disappoint. It’s very beautiful and I have enjoyed reading it. Alanna- I thought you were a talent and a treasure when I met you at PC and this book confirms I was right and that I also have excellent taste :) . Ace, Cheryl, and Hill also heard about your first book launch and are so happy for you. I wanted to reach out to let you know- this is such a fabulous project you created and we are all again so, so, so happy for you. Looking forward to your next book launch.Best, Mel

Not just a cookbook, but a way to enrich your life through simple ways while being out in nature. Beautiful photographs, inspirational quotes, memories and simple yet delicious recipes, I could not put this book down, it made me feel like I was in a dreamy safe place, much needed in this covid environment we now live in. I love this book and will buy more as it will make the perfect gift for my friends.

Such a dream book and happy to have a copy on my hands. I’m so proud of this girl to have accomplished this. The girl of my dreams and the love of my life! Unfortunately we’re not together anymore but at least I have this book with my to fantasize the good times we had together. Make sure to get a extra copy to gift someone that you love.

This book is full of beautiful photography and delicious recipes, perfectly curated for every season. I love the stories and sentiment behind each recipe too. I can’t wait to try them in my own kitchen! This would make a great gift for any foodie or outdoor enthusiast, especially during COVID era - truly a celebration of being outside in nature, enjoying good food, and good company.

Hoped for better photos after others raved about how beautiful they were. They’re washed out.

My daughter read me the most beautiful book this evening! It was about life, love and food. The Art of Picnics, I said,”Anyone who gets to know Alanna is lucky, she has beauty inside and is sharing it with all of us. Thank you Alanna.”