Written by Sarah Allen and published in Montreal in 1898, as the title suggests, The Common Sense Recipe Book is directed at the housewife who wishes to use common sense when managing household finances. The recipes contained within are very legible and adaptable, and a legend is provided containing a list of measurements. Cooking times and temperatures are also provided, two components rarely found in historical cookbooks. Such practical information was meant to help the cook achieve the best results while saving time and ingredients. 

Allen, Sarah. The Common Sense Recipe Book Containing All the Latest Recipes on Cooking With Economy and Also Very Valuable Medicinal Recipes. Montreal: John Lovell & Son, 1895. Gift of Una Abrahamson. Archival & Special Collections, University of Guelph Library.