My first vegan cookbook was Vegan with a Vengeance (by the same author) - I bought it as I had just become a vegetarian and wanted more ideas besides egg and cheese heavy meals. I loved the book and still regularly cook recipes from it.
When I heard about Veganomicon, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it! I've now had it for about 6 months and still haven't grown tired of it. My initial reaction was to be a little overwhelmed: there is sooo much in here! But I kept coming back to it, trying new recipes. Soups are a great place to start and there are some fabulous ones in it! My favourite (at the moment) would have to be the Broccoli and Potato soup. These gals know what they're doing: the addition of fresh mint and dille make this absolutely soar.
There are quite adventurous recipes in there and more simple ones. There are a number of icons (such as 'F' for low fat or 'S' for soy-free) and those recipes are also listed in their own appendix. The basic prepartion of legumes and grains is explained well, as well as the preparation of 'staple' extras (roasted garlic, roasted peppers).
The descriptions are thorough and encouraging (you'll attempt things you never knew you could make!) and the authors' way of communicating with the reader is fresh and upbeat. In short, this book is exciting, reliable, informative and fun - a trusted companion in anyone's kitchen.