Book Review: History is Delicious

History Is Delicious by Josh Lurie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

History is Delicious will entertain any young person who enjoys food, while sneakily educating them. As a bonus, this book just might jolt them out of their favorite foods rut.

The use of pleasant fonts and colorful pages makes sure that this book isn’t mistaken for just another boring history book. Whimsical illustrations are kept small and simple. I’m happy that actual food photography was *not* used, and I’ll tell you why. No one starts out as a perfect cook. Young people already have enough pressure on them to learn, succeed and excel. Now, imagine them facing down a photograph of a perfect plate of onigiri, Japanese rice balls. No pressure, just get it perfect, right? But, a simple illustration of a plate of onigiri gives them a visual that doesn’t overwhelm. It’s not intimidating. No matter how their first attempt at onigiri turns out, this illustration will not judge them.

There’s enough information about each country to provide context to the foods being discussed. And learning about local dining customs is fun and interesting. I enjoyed the “Table Settings Around the World” section which teaches how food is transported to your mouth in various countries. The use of thin, fermented pancakes as eating utensils should appeal to kids of any country!

As the author says in the introduction, “This is the book I wish I had when I was your age to help me know what else is possible.” I agree. I wish I’d had it during my own struggles with learning to cook.

My thanks to author Joshua Lurie, Honest History, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a digital advance review copy of this book. This review is my honest and unbiased opinion.

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