Sophia C. reviewed on 8/4/2013 + 289 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

The Omnivore's Dilemma changed the way I view food: rather than merely nourishment on a plate, Pollan gave me a better sense of its origins and deep connection to nature. The dilemma in the title refers to what we should eat, given that as omnivores humans can eat almost anything. The book is organized in three parts, to explore the different approaches to this question, and each section is paired with a meal. From industrial agriculture to organic (large or small scale) to personal foraging, Pollan relates his in-depth exploration of each food system. Whether in the corn fields of Iowa, a self-sustaining organic "grass farm" in Virgina, or the forests of Northern California, I enjoyed Pollan's adventures in tracing our complex food chains because he writes with wit and insight. I felt this book empowered me as an eater by pointing out the connections between what we choose to eat and how our society and landscapes are organized.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details