Andrew Beahrs

A very interesting book for those curious about food-oriented history. Beahrs, in a personable tone, explores Twain's list of most-beloved American foods and hones in on several to explore them within the context of the 19th century and what has happened to them now--if they still exist. This, in many ways, is a book about conservation, ecology, and how tastes and perspectives of foods can evolve over time. The book discusses Midwest prairie hens, racoons and possum, Lake Tahoe trout, oysters and mussels of San Francisco, Philadelphia terrapin, New Orleans sheephead fish, and cranberries. Twain's life and stories are woven throughout.… (mere)