UPDATED JULY 23: Nate Powell did not draw the Castro infographic, as previously noted. Powell did draw the chapter headings, but infographics are by Michael Hoerger, one of the co-authors, as mentioned in a comment from Mia Partlow. Shoestring Austin regrets the error.
As locals debate the relative merits of local vs. organic vs. ethical vs. tasty food, we may have overlooked a very important angle on the foodie scene: the political import of the foods we eat.
Before you groan about how this sounds like an exercise in either boredom or futility, allow me to introduce you to a highly intelligent and thoroughly entertaining book on the subject. Published by the always excellent Microcosm, Edible Secrets is a wild ride through American history, viewed through a foodie—and occasionally borderline-conspiracy theoriest—lens.
This book is intensely awesome, and I can’t recommend it enough, especially for people who have any interest in the concept of ”American History X.” You know, the alternate histories that our school system never teaches kids, for fear they won’t take the responsibility to think for themselves seriously (or is it because they just don’t want ‘em to question authority?).
Starting with the story of Black Panther Fred Hampton’s ice-cream related felony, and covering everything from Communist plots involving Jello to Fidel Castro’s love of milkshakes (and related attempts to use this information against him), the FBI and CIA are implicated in dozens of plots throughout the years. Not only are authors Michael Hoerger and Mia Partlow crafty storytellers, but they’ve also included the proof behind their seemingly outlandish stories: declassified documents from the American government itself, blithely acknowledging involvement. Holy Wikileaks!
The infographic detailing each and every only the first 150 assassination attempt on Castro’s life is just one of the inspired graphics that accompany these tales. (Death by milkshake? Seriously?) You’ll definitely want to check out the “Coke vs. Pepsi” list to see which fizzy liquid our American presidents have preferred throughout the years, as well as finding out how these Cola Wars actually sparked (or fueled) a few real wars.
Whether you’re a foodie, anarchist or American history buff, this slim volume makes a fine addition to any bookshelf.
Edible Secrets is available in Austin at BookPeople.
