This is no lightweight book! The hardcover measures about 2 inches thick and has just over 600 pages covering all things "baking". It does come in a paperback version too.
Take a look at the Table of Contents! It covers quite a few categories.
Breakfasts
Fried Doughs
Quick Breads
Buckles, Cobblers, and Crisps
Crackers and Flatbreads
Yeast Breads
Sourdough
Cookies and Bars
Cakes
Pies, Tarts, and Quiches
Pastry and Viennoiserie
Ingredients
Tools
This book does not have alot of color photographs, but it does have many illustrations and diagrams that are useful. It also has problem solving tips and helpful hint suggestions dispersed throughout the book. The recipes are written in a format that is easy to follow and they also provide nutritional information.
I think this as a very comprehensive baking resource for people who like to bake, and like to bake a lot of different things. It reminds me of the classic book, Joy of Cooking, which is a comprehensive all around cooking guide. Baker's Companion is that for baking.
I currently have so many cookbooks, that I am very selective now, about what I add to my collection. I have even thinned out the assortment I have! Since I am very experienced with baking and have a significant collection of recipes and resources in my library, I've decided not to buy this book for myself. But, that said, if you are looking for a comprehensive baking guide, this book is worth a look. It would be a great gift for someone just getting started with baking. (ie. bridal shower gift??). If you know a bride to be that loves to bake, this would be a great start to her cookbook collection! It would also be useful to a seasoned cook that wants to add a comprehensive baking resource to their library.
If you are not sure if this book is right for you, I suggest you check it out from the library. It will give you a better idea of whether this book will meet your needs. If you decide to buy, research pricing at the King Arthur website and other internet sources to get the best bargain. Used copies are also available on the internet.
King Arthur Flour has a great website with lots of recipes, tutorials, videos, a blog and they even sell ingredients, supplies and books. They also have a newsletter that you can sign up for. I have already made a few of their on line recipes for bread with great success. The link appears below. Check it out!
http://www.kingarthurflour.com/