In-N-Out Burger

A Behind-the-Counter Look at the Fast-Food Chain That Breaks All the Rules

By: Stacy Perman

Narrated by: Loren Lester

It's the untold story of the renegade burger chain that evokes a passionate following unlike any other. In fast-food corporate America, In-N-Out Burger stands apart. Begun in a tiny shack in the shadow of World War II, this family-owned chain has steadfastly refused to franchise or be sold. It is a testament to old-fashioned values and reminiscent of a simpler time when people, loyalty, and a freshly made, juicy hamburger meant something. Over time, In-N-Out Burger has become nothing less than a cultural institution that can lay claim to an insanely loyal following.

Perman uses her investigative skills to uncover the story of a real American success story. It is not only a tale of a unique and profitable business that exceeds all expectations, but of a family's struggle to maintain a sustainable pop empire against the industry it helped pioneer, internal tensions, and a bitter lawsuit that threatened to bring the company to the brink. This is a lesson in a counterintuitive approach to doing business that places quality, customers, and employees over the riches promised by rapid expansion.

In-N-Out Burger is a keenly observed narrative that explores the evolution of a California fad that transformed into an enduring cult of popularity; it is also the story of the conflicted, secretive, and ultimately tragic Snyder family who cooked a billion burgers and hooked a zillion fans. As the story of In-N-Out Burger unfolds so too does the cultural history of America as influenced and shaped by car culture and fast food.

©2009 Stacy Perman (P)2009 HarperCollins Publishers

Two Words... well Three Words

Fried Mustard Buns!!!!

I love it. A fast read. In-N'-Out.

EXCELLENT!

Growing up in the area of the 1st (and at that time, ONLY!) In-N-Out, I found this to be a great book of history: history of the area, of fast food and of In-N-Out itself. The only part I didn't like was the end--it came too soon! I don't know if I would have enjoyed it as much if I hadn't grown up in the area, or if I wasn't a fan of In-N-Out, but I think so, as it is a great source of history on fast food, and Americana in general. Very, very good.

chain's history

story telling was interesting and was not aware of the brothers. need to look at the palm trees on next visit

Great business story

outliers are always interesting, they remind the rest of us of the possibility of doing things differently.. and in-n-out is just another example of that.

Meh

Typical story of a family business with an over abundance of tragedy. No real insight into the business outside of quality and pay employees well. Author clearly loooooves the chain maybe too much.

A tasteful history of In & Out Burger

Not knowing much about the company, other than being a fan of the food. I found this to be interesting history of a fast food company that has stayed with their core values while continuing to grow. The family history was interesting and sad. Found the story to be a little repetative at times or almost an In & Out commercial. I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.

Great Book

I had no idea about In and Out. I have eaten at them. The history of in and out and the other food changes was interested. If you are an In and Out fan or like hear about history this a book is for you. Now I need to go and get a Double Double 😊

Great story

What did you love best about In-N-Out Burger?

This is a lovely story about what makes a great burger restaurant. I loved the sense of family and the way they stuck together though 3 generations of burgers.

Which scene was your favorite?

I loved the way the family kept returning to their roots in Baldwin Park

Any additional comments?

I recommend this read for anyone who has had enough of McDonald's and wants to bring the goodness back to their burgers.

This Book has got "Animal Style"!!!

I am from the Midwest so when I first tried In-N-Out when I moved to San Diego I was immediately hooked!!! I love their food but probably more than that I love how they treat their associates, excellent pay and great benefits, which is really unheard of in the fast food world. I did enjoy reading about the family and the trials and tribulations they went through to keep their business going. It's just a really delicious American Tale👍🏻 🍔

GOOD AUDIOBOOK! ENTERTAINING.

Everything you’ll ever need to know about IN-N-OUT BURGER. Interesting story. Good narrator. They even talk about the infamous “IN-N-OUT URGE” bumper stickers!