Chantal

This book clearly outlines some amazing accomplishments by the New World's early inhabitants. It is full of information, but the information is provided at a pace and with enough narration that it reamins easy and entertaining to listen to, in contrast with one of my other favorite books, Jared Diamond's Collapse, that require full and undivided attention.

I had never heard about Chef Samuelsson when I picked up this title. I loved his descriptions of the culinary world and how his life experiences and origins influenced his taste in food and his prepation techniques. But this is much more than just about food. He also takes his listeners through the stages of his life and talks about what made him who he is today through an eye-opening journey that covers several continents and a multitude of kitchens, and talks about his origin, his families and friends with love and candor without glossing over some of the big mistakes he made. The reading of the book by the author, with its different delivery and little quirks, adds authenticity to the story.

I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked up this book. As a recovering driver who now uses almost exclusively mass transit I wasn't sure if this would apply to me. In reality, it was a very balanced look at our roads and all the associated issues and problems from all vantage points: rational drivers and those with road rage, mass transit, parking, engineering, car racing, etc. Even though I consider myself fairly well informed about planning issues, I learned a lot and highly recommend the book. The type of information included in this book can also make our road safer and voters/taxpayers better informed.