Reviews

Consider the Fork: A History of How We Cook and Eat by Bee Wilson

spinachdyke's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

wahoo finally finished

3.5, definitely interesting but not as engaging as i’d hoped

kayteeem's review against another edition

Go to review page

Several read out loud to the family moments. Enjoyed the book -- made me take a second look at some common kitchen tools, and wonder if I really do need a food processor and sous vide equipment...

oblatecordon's review against another edition

Go to review page

informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

such a treasure trove of information! made me question how much i had taken for granted when it comes to cooking and what i cook with. also quite a eye-opener on what we consider ‘the right way’ of making something and how something being so anal about the ‘traditional’ way to cook something being correct is nonsense. 

the only jarring bits for me were when there was references to instagram influencers i know of because it took me out of the mysticism of the book a bit, but that’s just me. 

sallen1118's review

Go to review page

informative lighthearted medium-paced

3.5

eljaspero's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

The rare book that is as informative as it is charming. A casual, but authoritative voice disguises the trove of scholarship underlying - a fun and engaging tour of culinary history through the lens of its technology, great for anybody who loves to make or eat food.

lisawhelpley's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

Very easy to get through, and interesting. This COULD have been overly detailed and boring, but the author kept it interesting and light, yet still educational.

cappog's review against another edition

Go to review page

funny hopeful informative lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

5.0

bluestjuice's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

It's a brief and charming overview, not a scholarly work. But if you've ever wondered idly about the history of various kitchen gadgets, this nonfiction piece could be fascinating. It's a light, anecdotal romp through the drawers and cabinets of your kitchen, organized by function into loose categories. Some things I already knew, some were a surprise. It was unpredictable, unanticipated, and fun.

sjgrodsky's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

The five stars is a courtesy. Id really like to give 4 1/2 because the book lacks sufficient illustrations. Many times the author describes something rather carefully but I still can't visualize the object or process. A photo would have been ever so helpful.

But thats my only critique. Otherwise the book is well researched, well written (though self consciously "clever" at times), and engaging. The short bit on rice cookers had me nodding in agreement. It is one of those brilliant devices you think you don't need. Until you get one and find it indispensable.

easytocrash's review

Go to review page

informative medium-paced

4.0