Katie Workman may seem like a superwoman — writer, food editor, mom. She is the founder of Cookstr, and she even finds time to sit on the boards of nonprofits. But she knows the real day-to-day challenges of being a busy mom, and she wrote a charming, energetic, very inspiring cookbook to help get dinner on the table night in and night out.

The concept behind this book could have been gimmicky: Set up daily cooking dilemmas, and then fix them with recipes. But the ones Katie chose are very familiar, and she has smart, appealing recipes that all feel like they fit naturally into your daily routine.

Example: The Dilemma: Getting the kids fed and out the door.
Answer? English Muffin Pizzas, Crunchy Chewy Granola, Oatmeal Your Way. All very yummy!

Example: The Obligation: Offering the requisite dinner party pre-dinner nibble.
Answer? Holy Guacamole, Pigs in a Blanket.

The photos, by Todd Coleman of Saveur (remember his amazing garlic video?) are plentiful, casually colorful, and always delicious.

Quick Facts

• Who wrote it: Katie Workman (visit her website)

• Who published it: Workman Publishing

• Number of recipes: 100

• Recipes for right now: Broiled Miso Cod Fingers, One-Pot Arroz con Pollo, Kitchen Sink Chopped Salad

• Other highlights: Katie's wry, funny, and direct style of writing. Her voice is so clear and fun on the page.

• Who would enjoy this book? Anyone looking for direct answers to evening cooking dilemmas, and anyone looking to perk up their weeknight routine a bit.

Find the book at your local library, independent bookstore, or Amazon: The Mom 100 Cookbook: 100 Recipes Every Mom Needs in Her Back Pocket

(Images: Faith Durand)