Books Like...
'The Cooking Gene' by Michael W. Twitty is a deeply personal exploration of African American culinary history, intertwined with the author's own family genealogy and cultural identity. The book delves into the origins of Southern cuisine, tracing the influence of African roots on American food culture and highlighting the complexities of race, heritage, and food as a source of storytelling and connection. Twitty's narrative style weaves together history, family anecdotes, and reflections on identity, offering a comprehensive look at the impact of food on individual and collective experiences.
Through a series of interconnected essays, Twitty recounts his journey of self-discovery through the lens of food, detailing the historical significance of ingredients like rice, corn, and sugar in shaping Southern cuisine. The book also addresses themes of genealogy, slavery, and resilience, providing a nuanced perspective on the intersection of food, culture, and identity in America. Twitty's storytelling combines personal reflection with meticulous research, offering readers a compelling exploration of the complexities of race, history, and heritage through the lens of food.
If you liked The Cooking Gene: A Journey Through African American Culinary History in the Old South, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:'Never Caught' by Erica Armstrong Dunbar is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of Ona Judge, a courageous woman who escaped from slavery in the household of George and Martha Washington. Through meticulous research and storytelling, Dunbar paints a vivid picture of Ona's struggles, determination, and pursuit of freedom. The book challenges the myths surrounding the institution of slavery and humanizes the individuals involved in this historical period, offering valuable insights into the complexities of early American slavery and the moral dilemmas faced by prominent figures like the Founding Fathers.
Dunbar's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the injustices of slavery while also highlighting stories of hope and resilience. By bringing Ona Judge's narrative to life, the book sheds light on the untold stories of individuals who made a significant impact on American history, emphasizing the importance of remembering and learning from the past.
The men and women who lived on George and Martha Washington’s estate must have marveled at the peculiar snow, but whatever excitement the unusual weather brought was most certainly replaced by concern... - #2
Save:'The Art of Eating' by M.F.K. Fisher is a collection of five of her classic works, each offering a unique perspective on food, eating, and cooking. Fisher's writing style is described as intensely personal, focused, precise, opinionated, generous, and enlightening. Through her essays, Fisher explores various aspects of food culture, from historical musings on eating to personal anecdotes about memorable meals. Her prose is praised for being wonderfully paced, evocative, and making readers excited about the handling, preparation, and enjoyment of good food.
DURING HER LIFETIME M. F. K. Fisher was no stranger to introductions. She wrote them for well-known authors and for community cookbooks and for friends and fans—or she dashed one off because the subje... 'On Food and Cooking: The Science and Lore of the Kitchen' by Harold McGee is an extensive reference book that delves into the science, history, and sociology of food and cooking. The book explores a wide range of topics, from the chemistry of ingredients to the physics of cooking techniques, providing detailed explanations and fascinating insights into the world of culinary arts. McGee's writing style combines scientific explanations with historical anecdotes and practical information, making the book both educational and enjoyable to read for anyone interested in food and cooking.
What better subject for the first chapter than the food with which we all begin our lives? Humans are mammals, a word that means “creatures of the breast,” and the first food that any mammal tastes is...'Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat' by Bee Wilson is a detailed and entertaining examination of the history of cooking and eating habits throughout civilization. The author delves into the evolution of food preparation, exploring the tools and techniques humans have developed over time. From the use of fire for cooking to the innovations in molecular gastronomy, Wilson traces the impact of technology on our cuisine and eating habits. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the development of kitchen gadgets, changes in kitchen designs, and the cultural influences on cooking styles and techniques. Written in a chatty and personal style, the author shares anecdotes about chefs, foods, and her own experiences in the kitchen, making the history of cooking engaging and informative.
As a form of technology, however, boiling is far from obvious. The pot transformed the possibilities of cooking. To be able to boil something—in a liquid, which may or may not impart additional flavor...- #5
Save:Imagination: A Manifesto by Ruha Benjamin is a compelling call for rethinking our society through the power of imagination. Benjamin argues that to address major issues like racism and climate change, we must first transform our understanding of ourselves and our systems. The book is accessible in style, blending academic rigor with straightforward language. It challenges readers to think deeply about the injustices present in our world while presenting imaginative solutions drawn from real-life examples.
Through engaging discussions and practical exercises, Benjamin invites readers to explore new narratives about collective wellbeing and community-oriented solutions. She critiques oppressive systems that stifle creativity and proposes ways to cultivate a radical imagination for social change. With its emphasis on collaboration and individual empowerment, the book inspires hope and urgency for creating a more equitable future.
'Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking' by Samin Nosrat is a culinary guide that explores the fundamental elements of cooking - salt, fat, acid, and heat. Through a combination of informative text and quirky illustrations, the book teaches readers how to master these elements to elevate their cooking skills. Readers have praised the book for its unique perspective on food and menus, with some describing it as a comprehensive guide that opens up a whole new way of looking at cooking. The author's writing style is welcoming and humorous, making the culinary journey enjoyable and educational.
A friend who’s been a hand surgeon for nearly forty years told me that avocados and bagels are the two most common causes of hand injuries. So please, please, please put the avocado down on the board ...- #8
Save:"Year of the Tiger: An Activist's Life" is a powerful memoir by Alice Wong, a notable disability activist. This book is not a typical inspirational memoir; instead, it offers a raw and honest account of Alice's life as a disabled woman of color navigating the world. The writing is non-linear and features a mix of essays, interviews, and social media posts. Alice addresses the realities of living with a severe disability, especially during the pandemic, sharing her experiences and those of others within the disabled community.
Alice's humor shines through in her storytelling, making readers laugh while tackling serious topics like access, education, and discrimination. She emphasizes the importance of amplifying the voices of disabled people, especially disabled people of color. The memoir is enlightening and challenging, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of disability. Overall, it’s a remarkable read that combines humor, reflection, and activism, making it essential for anyone interested in Disability Rights and Culture.
- #9
Save:"All You Can Ever Know" by Nicole Chung is a memoir that delves into the complexities of identity, race, and family through the lens of transracial adoption. The author, a Korean American woman adopted by a white family, explores her journey of self-discovery and the search for her birth family, uncovering secrets that challenge her sense of self. Chung's writing style is described as thoughtful, moving, and insightful, offering a poignant portrayal of her experiences growing up in a predominantly white community while navigating the nuances of cultural belonging and acceptance.
When I was still young—three or four, I’ve been told—I would crawl into my mother’s lap before asking to hear it. Her arms would have encircled me, solid and strong where I was slight, pale and freckl... A Black Women's History of the United States by Daina Ramey Berry is a rich and insightful exploration of the history of Black women in America, spanning from 1619 to the present day. The book sheds light on stories that are often overlooked or not taught in traditional education, providing a deep dive into the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of African American women and their enslaved ancestors. The writing style is dense and fascinating, offering an expansive knowledge of history with abundant political and social context for each time period covered.
The book challenges the inadequacies of American public education in teaching Black history, especially the stories of Black women. It is described as a gem that everyone can benefit from reading, offering a different perspective on American history through the lens of Black women's experiences. Readers are left with a clear understanding of the significant contributions and sacrifices made by Black women throughout history, inspiring a deeper appreciation and awareness of their impact on shaping America.
THE EARLY HISTORICAL NARRATIVES of North America were not uniquely centered on Black women until now; instead, it was about discovery, colonization, and conquest. This history emphasized the “discover...
