Valet Reader

Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan

Seriously? Seriously? People actually love / rant and rave about this book?

Not that long ago I was at my Aunt’s house with her partner, my sister and her boyfriend. Somehow, not surprisingly, we started talking about books (a very normal conversation in my family) and one that was discussed was the “Omnivore’s Dilemma” by Michael Pollan. Of all the books that were brought up this was probably the most highly regarded.

So… what happens when I overhear conversations like this? I go to the library and check it out. Well, let me tell you, I do not share their sentiments nor the sentiments of the woman on the bus who I saw nearly have an orgasm while reading this book several weeks ago. My suggestion is … in lieu of reading this book you go to the movie store or netflix and take out “King Corn.” Let me preface this by saying that I am firm believer in reading over watching. But in this instance, the documentary wins. I learned by staring at the dumb tube for less than two hours what took me at least three days to learn from reading this book. And I found it to be presented in a more interesting way. Needless to say, Corn is King.

Of course that particular documentary only touches on the first portion of Pollan’s book. The other parts while interesting and educational really weren’t all that exciting. If you didn’t already know that “organic” isn’t really all that “organic” or that Whole Foods gouges you on prices well, now you do. But if I had to make an educated guess, you’re not gonna stop shopping there are you?

The most engaging portions of this book involve Pollan himself scavenging for his own meal. His hunt for both protein and fungus were entertaining and fun but not quite up to par with the hunt in “Battle Royale” (then again not much is). Sure that’s an unfair comparison but guess what, I don’t care!

I think what I came away from this book is that shopping at Whole Foods is kind of a waste, hunting can be pretty difficult, picking mushrooms can be dangerous and that burger you’re eating may not be that tasty if you actually knew what went into it before it was a patty. Will I rush out and read Pollan’s other books… no. In due time I’m sure I will. I imagine all it will take is another lively book discussion at my Aunt’s or my parents’ house but until then… I can wait.