Breakfast, Luncheon and Tea

"Breakfast, Luncheon and Tea" by Marion Harland is a comprehensive guide on culinary practices and household management written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the intricacies of meal planning, preparation, and presentation, reflecting the societal norms and expectations of the time. Harland addresses various aspects of cooking, with an emphasis on making meals not only nutritious but also enjoyable for the family. The opening of the book establishes a friendly and conversational tone as Harland introduces the idea of "Common Sense in the Household." She reflects on her gratitude towards readers for their support, sharing her insights on the importance of creating a welcoming environment for meals, particularly breakfast. She discusses the challenges that householders face in managing their duties while maintaining a warm atmosphere at the dining table. Various anecdotes illustrate her points, setting up the subsequent detailed recipes and practical advice that follow, aimed at enhancing the overall dining experience in a traditional household. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Mary Virginia Terhune, also known by her penname Marion Harland, was an American author who was prolific and bestselling in both fiction and non-fiction genres. Born in Amelia County, Virginia, she began her career writing articles at the age of 14, using various pennames until 1853, when she settled on Marion Harland. Her first novel Alone was published in 1854 and became an "emphatic success" following its second printing the next year. For fifteen years she was a prolific writer of best-selling women's novels, classified then as "plantation fiction", as well as writing numerous serial works, short stories, and essays for magazines.