Pepper: A History of the World's Most Influential Spice

"A well-documented companion to Mark Kurlanskys Salt." Publishers Weekly Mark Kurlanskys smash hit Salt exposed the fascinating history of this everyday staple to countless readers around the world. Now in this perfect companion to Kurlanskys book Marjorie Shaffer illuminates the rich history of pepper for a popular audience. Vivid and entertaining this sweeping tale of adventure and intrigue describes the essential role that pepper played in bringing both Americans and Europeans to Asia. From the abundance of wildlife on the islands of the Indian Ocean to colorful accounts of sultans entertaining their European visitors this fascinating book reveals the often surprising story behind one of mankinds most common spices. In this definitively researched and compelling story Pepper: A History of the Worlds Most Influential Spice Shaffer combines history customs and food lore to deliver a mesmerizing tale that every foodie will have to own.