The Story Behind the Dish - by Mark McWilliams (Hardcover)

About the Book

"The Story behind the Dish - Fifty Classic American Foods"--

Book Synopsis

Profiling 48 classic American foods ranging from junk and fast food to main dishes to desserts, this book reveals what made these dishes iconic in American pop culture.

Americans have increasingly embraced food culture, a fact proven by the rising popularity of celebrity chefs and the prominence of television shows celebrating food themes. This fascinating overview reveals the surprising story behind the foods America loves.

The Story Behind the Dish: Classic American Foods is an engaging pop culture resource which helps tell the story of American food. Each chapter is devoted to one of 48 distinctive American dishes and features the story of where the food developed, what inspired its creation, and how it has evolved. The book not only covers each food as a single entry, but also analyzes the themes and events that connect them, making the text useful as both a reference and a narrative on the history of food.

Review Quotes

"McWilliams (English, US Naval Academy) presents a 48-entry history of American foods, from apple pie through Waldorf salad. . . . Summing Up: Recommended. Students of all levels, professionals/practitioners, and general readers." --Choice

About the Author

Mark McWilliams, PhD, is associate professor of English at the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD.