Tackling an app development project on multiple platforms is no simple task. When time is in short supply and customers need access from the tap of a home screen, React Native can provide a lean development team with the tools needed to deliver a multiplatform native experience without juggling multiple programming languages and shifting code bases. Aimed at people with some JavaScript and web development experience, the first part of this cookbook covers some simple tips for getting started with React Native. Part 2 will cover some emerging patterns that are commonly found in most native applications.