America the Edible

I realize my past few posts have been strictly Adam Richman related, but ya know what, deal with it. Nobody reads this shit anyway. It's for my own edification.

I devoured Adam's book in a day and a half. I could've finished it entirely in one day, but as is my need with most books, I like to prolong the experience when I'm enjoying it. As a child, I would make multiple trips to the library in a week, but always keep a few. I like to savor a good book. I find myself sad when I reach the end of a book I really enjoy.

Such is the case with this one.

The moment I began the first chapter, I was in it. The first few paragraphs of the very first chapter brought us into the world of Adam's heartbreak. Being a recent resident of Heartbreakville, it spoke to me instantly. Especially the "I don't love you anymore", which only 5 months ago was a phrase that shattered my entire life.

To have a reader in the first few paragraphs is a sign you're about to embark on a great literary journey.

And boy was I!

Food was never really something I considered to be "sexy". America the Edible changed my perspective of this. Watching someone enjoy something you also enjoy, or even have made, is absolutely sexy.

Now, I LOVE food. Trust, there's nothing I'd rather do than eat. All day, all night. Food is fantastic. But I never really realized what a profound effect it has on our lives. I remember hearing Adam talking about how food affects our experiences and stands out in certain circumstances in episodes past.. and until I really read what he has to say, I didn't realize how true that was.

Stories of romance, romance lost and craving romance - all of which feature food really make this book amazing. The food (including its taste, smell, and presentation), the people in Adam's life, the stories told, the cities and their histories, the locals, the tourists, the surroundings in the restaurants -- all feel completely palpable.

America the Edible is hands-down one of the most well-written books I've ever had the great pleasure of reading. (and I read a fucking LOT!) And I'd like to point out that I'm a completely unbiased reader. I'm a biased watcher. I'll watch Adam Richman do anything because he's delicious. I am a 100% unbiased reader, though. I've read books written by authors I admire and love that have absolutely bored me to tears. This was not the case with America the Edible. I was completely engaged and left wanting more.

Hawaii made me crave paradise and I envisioned that chapter easiest. I could feel Hawaii's beauty permeating through the pages.

San Fransisco broke my heart. All I wanted to do after reading that chapter is hug Adam Richman hard.

Brooklyn made me want to go home.
Every city, every chapter, every story; it was all magnificent.

I suggest everyone pick up a copy.... and I dare you to not rave about it! :)