Sentimental Sweets: Vintage Desserts from the Great Depression Made Modern by Valerie Simpson—is a unique cookbook which blends historical charm with modern baking, featuring restored recipes and notes that honor a treasured 1932 handwritten collection.
What SPARKed your interest in writing this book?
I had the incredible fortune of acquiring a handwritten dessert cookbook from 1932. Over several years, I restored all the recipes and immersed myself in researching the era. There was no doubt in my mind that this unique collection needed to be preserved and shared—both to honor its historical significance and to allow others to experience a remarkable moment in time. Although I’ve been a Registered Nurse for nearly 40 years, this journey into food history, writing, recipe development, and food photography became a new and passionate chapter in my life.
Tell us about a part of the writing/publishing process that was harder than you expected. How did SPARK Publications help you through this process?
Honestly, the whole process was harder than I expected. I had been working on the content for so long that I thought it “should” be ready to go. But SPARK Publications took my original files and transformed them into a beautifully organized, vintage-inspired cookbook. They supported me at every stage—from refining my recipes and elevating my food photography to designing marketing materials. It was a collaborative process that was both educational and enjoyable.
Valerie’s thoughts on working with SPARK Publications:
“SPARK Publications helped me transform my restored recipes and photographs into a beautiful cookbook that I’m truly proud to have my name on. They completely understood my vision and delivered a final product that far exceeded my expectations. I’m looking forward to future collaborations with them!”
Tell us about some of the services SPARK Publications provided and how they brought out the best version of your book.
SPARK Publications delivered several invaluable services, including recipe restructuring, editorial guidance, and photography consulting, which allowed me to bake and shoot all the interior photos myself. A professional food photographer was hired for the cover image, which, along with the back cover, was beautifully designed. They also created a custom company seal I now use in all my promotional efforts. The interior pages showcase a vintage-inspired layout using my restored baking creations and photography. SPARK toned and color-corrected all of my images and handled all the prepress and publishing tasks to prepare the book for print. Holding the finished book in my hands for the first time was an unforgettable moment—and now I’m thrilled to be selling them nationwide.
How will this experience and your book impact your career, business, or life moving forward?
Restoring this cookbook and each individual recipe changed how I view food history and the value of preserving recipes. Publishing the book led me to launch a website as well, and together, these give me a platform to share what I’ve learned and connect with others who appreciate culinary heritage.
What is one tip or piece of advice you would give a business owner or thought leader who wants to write a book?
There’s no better way to establish yourself as an expert than to write a book driven by your passion. Mine is baking. Research a topic deeply, then craft a book that brings genuine value to your audience. The process might take longer than expected or present unexpected challenges, but it’s a powerful way to grow your business and personal brand.
If you have other platforms that you would like our readers to know about, please share below.
I’d love for you to visit my blog and website—and of course, consider buying the book for your mom, or any cooking or history enthusiast.
Click here to purchase the book from Barnes and Noble.
Click here to purchase the book from Amazon.
Click here to check out Sentimental Sweets on Instagram.
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