Wednesday, April 30, 2008

... An Eater's Manifesto

Last year, The Omnivores Dilemma was a hands down favorite read. This year, I find Michael Pollan's follow-up book, In Defense of Food, an absolute must read.

If you are, or have ever been, confused by the whirlwind of scientific studies and nutrition -- read this. If you desire to eat well -- read this. If you don't care about food -- read this. If you consume any food at all -- read this.

Once in a while I find a book so compelling that I'm overwhelmed at the thought of trying to express it to you. I usually end up quoting large chunks when this happens. Well, it wouldn't work with this book because I'd be quoting the entire book. Apparently Nora Ephron of The New York Times felt similarly:

"I have tried on countless occasions to convey to my friends how incredible this book is. I have gone on endlessly... Well the point is, I have tried and failed to explain it, so I just end up giving them a copy, and sooner or later they call to say, 'You were right, it's fantastic.'"

I'm so excited about this book and feel so strongly that everyone should read it that I'm going to give away a copy of it.

To enter to win the book, just leave a comment and I'll draw a winner on Friday May 9th using a random number generator .

If you happen not to win, it's highly worth getting on the waiting list at your local library. If you can't wait, just order it through Amazon. It's a short, but compelling read, I promise.

If you've already read it, I'd love to hear your thoughts.

16 comments:

Ginger said...

this is my officaial entry to WIN THAT BOOK :)
thanks for doing the raffle--great idea!

mindy said...

'Chelle, this is my official entry. You really have me intrigued about it!

Anonymous said...

I've been wanting to read this book, so I'm excited about entering your contest!

Jessica Rockey said...

That's so interesting! I was actually looking at that book the other day... but I had never heard of it and was gonna see if you've heard of it. I'm a bit insecure to read books I've never heard of... I know it's stupid! I guess I just feel better with a meaningful recommendation before I 'delve' into it.
This is my official entry!!!! Yeah team! (and spirit fingers... Michelle-style)!

Sarah said...

Okay, I'm intrigued. It's hard for me to imagine a book about food being that good....but I believe you and I'd like ot read it!

Wendy said...

Ok Michelle, I am in...but what direction does he go in? Healthy? Be a vegetarian? Political direction? Like what is the jist in one sentence?

I am curious...

Bekah said...

OOOO OOO pick me pick me! Sounds like a fab book...and I can always use a good read! :)

The Smith Family said...

Wow, that must be a great book! I always enjoy reading your reviews:)
Jenny Smith
(btw-cute idea for the drawing..hope I win:)!!!)

AmyB said...

Well, I'm in! You know how much I love me some food!

AmyB said...

Ok, so after looking again at all those books you've read (and with the mention of these two) I just decided that you need to have surgery again so I can come stay with you and get a bunch of reading done -since Keegs I've slacked and I miss it! You've got me all inspired again!

Leslie said...

since we seem to be one the same page with nutrition and i would love to get my hands on this book and if I win and love it as much as you perhaps i will pay it forward myself, great idea!

anne said...

I'm in for sure!!!

Les said...

Count me in !

Anonymous said...

Woo Hoo! I love book giveaways!
-kacey :)

Michelle said...

Wendy - In one sentence "Eat Food. Not too much. Mostly Plants." That's how the author describes it anyhow. I'd say it's about how to eat healthy. Not necessarily political or vegetarian. It just seemed to clarify alot for me.

Ams- Uh, surgery seems like kind of a radical way for you to get to read more. How about we just trade houses for a mini-vacation??

AmyB said...

WHAT? Wimpin' out on me eh? :-) Ok, how abouts we have a reading day at the park or something and we can BOTH get some in...no surgery required!