I'm a firm believer that any cookbook, Junior League or otherwise, that has a woman's name at the end of each receipt is going to be the best you'll ever get. Only an idiot signs her name to a bad receipt! One of my favorites is one I picked up at a church bazaar while on vacation:
Just Three. Every receipt is comprised of three ingredients, plus any common spices.
If you can get someone older to give you a cookbook, you have made a true friend! Let the cookbook open at will, or notice where the stains are - those are the better receipts.
Obviously, I collect cookbooks.
The Better Homes & Gardens Pink Plaid Edition gets another vote from me, as does the 1970's Betty Crocker - perfect for the beginning cook. PS: the Betty Crocker has a whole section on tea sandwiches!