We (3 of our family of 4) enjoy books that address non-fiction topics and this book did not disappoint. It is the first Michael Pollan book I have read, but if it had not been designated as one of my book club reads, I would have avoided it due to the narrator. I dislike Scott Brick and, unfortunately, he is a prolific narrator. However, on this book, I found that I could overlook Mr. Brick's whiney nasal tone because of the quality of the writing. Michael Pollan presents the idea that plants, he uses 4 examples, have evolved desirable traits especially for humans for the purpose of increasing the plants chances of survival. Though I was not convinced that plants are in control of us, I did earn some great historical facts. As a gardener myself, I found the author's personal gardening experiences especial appealing.

In 4 separate stories, this book looks at the way mankind has influenced the evolution and global distribution of specific plants (apples, tulips, potatoes and marijuana). This leads the author to question who is actually using who.
I found the stories interesting and fun.
The narrator's voice is somewhat nasal, which annoyed me a little bit, but not such that it marred by enjoyment of the book.

I did enjoy listening to this book. It made me think to apply different scientific theorems in ways that I haven't.

The most interesting aspect was the formulations about co-evolution of the specific plants.

No character, a non-fiction book.

Yes, but a scientific or botanical leaning or preference is needed.

Michael Pollan, yes. Scott Brick, no.

n/a

no

yes

Definitely I would buy another Micheal Pollan book. Although Scott Brick did his best, he just didn't read it as I want it read. No humor. A nasal tone to his voice. Too bad.

I had read the book and remember laughing out loud at Micheal's brush with the law in the marijuana segment. I was looking forward to hearing it read. Somehow even that didn't come off, with Mr. Brick. It fell flat.

Much non-fiction entertainment for your dollar here.
Cutting-edge at times.
Some new concepts.
Tons of new info.
This author especially recognizes when something is important.
Finds the important, as we all should.
Glad I selected it.

I especially like Michael's brilliant essay on the evolution of American cannabis.

The combination of great narrative and technical research.

Yes

N.

If you are like me, you've seen the video with the same title. If you have, you're in for a treat if you purchase this audible version. Michael Pollan's humor, knowledge, and ability to spin informative narrative makes science fun again.

I absolutely loved listening to this book. I learned a lot about things I didn't even know I was interested in (who would've thought potatoes could be so fascinating?) and it left me wanting to research some topics further. It's the kind of book that gives you a lot to think about.

It's not a book about gardening, but it gave me so much newfound respect for plants that I almost want to try growing my own garden, regardless of my history as a plant serial killer.

The writing style is entertaining and easy to follow. I enjoyed the narration.

Highly recommended!

I loved the way the whole concept! what a fantastic imagination and factual as well. thank you for helping me appreciate the finer points on 'bugs'. Scott Brick was a fine narrator with a comfortable tone.

didnt have a favorite moment.

no.

no, but i did find it fascinating.

it gives an interesting perspective

Michael Pollan has again written a fantastic book. If you think a book about plants would be dull and tedious, think again! This book is nothing if not a fascinating journey about our relationship with plants and how they affect, enrich and sometimes reveal the best and the worst in ourselves.
Scott Brick performance is spot on. He knows when to bring it by injecting the right note, the right emotion in his voice and he also knows how to let the words speak and move us by themselves. I will certainly be looking forward to listening Scott Brick performing with other books.
This book will not disappoint. Michael Pollan knows how to make learning about a somewhat serious subject come alive. It's as much fun as you can have learning. I also highly recommend that you read his other books, especially those about food (A Defense of Food and The Omnivore's Dilemma).