I love this book! I fell in love w/i this book 3 years ago in a well-known bookstore, where it was priced out of my reach, then. When I finally had a little more money, I thought to go to Amazon for the book, and got it so inexpensively that a friend asked to get a second copy for her. The book has basic information for beginners as well as the incredible 'special effects" this author is known for,and she gives detailed step-by-steps that are beautifully illustrated. Can't be beat. Love it!