Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World

by Mark Kurlansky
Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World cover
Good Books rating 3.63
History
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  • ID: 1031
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2025-09-24
  • ISBN: 9780307369802
  • Publisher: Vintage Canada
  • Published: 2011-03-04
  • Formats: 22
  • Reviews: 3

Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World by Mark Kurlansky is a captivating exploration of the history and cultural significance of the cod fish. It reveals how this seemingly ordinary fish played a pivotal role in the settlement of North America, the diets of medieval Europe, and the economies of various nations. The book delves into the environmental consequences of overfishing, highlighting the tragic depletion of cod stocks that were once abundant./n/nKurlansky's narrative is not just about the fish but also about the people and societies that depended on it. From the Vikings to the Basques, the book weaves together a rich tapestry of human history, economics, and gastronomy. It's a whimsical yet profound look at how a single species can influence the course of human civilization.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-09-24
enlightening 3.90

The book is well-written and enjoyable, offering a unique perspective on history that is often overlooked. It is praised for its engaging narrative and thorough research.

This book is celebrated for its engaging and accessible writing style, making a complex historical subject approachable. Readers appreciate the fresh perspective it offers on historical events, highlighting aspects that are often overshadowed. The thorough research and engaging narrative make it a standout read for those interested in history and the impact of seemingly mundane subjects on global events.

Quick quotes

    It is well written, easy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.

    While it tells a very polarised aspect of history it is a side that would not often be thought of;

    A fascinating look at how one fish shaped the world.

Hardcover · Daren · 2023-10-17
disappointing 3.00

The book falls short of delivering a comprehensive biography of the fish, feeling more like a collection of related facts. The reviewer finds it lacking in narrative cohesion.

This reviewer feels that the book misses the mark in providing a cohesive biography of the cod. While it presents a wealth of information related to the fish, it fails to weave these facts into a compelling narrative. The reviewer finds the structure disjointed and the overall impact less satisfying than expected. Despite the thorough research, the book feels more like a series of interesting but unrelated anecdotes rather than a unified exploration of the cod's impact on the world.

Quick quotes

    I wouldn't do it justice here to try and pull together a narrative.

    For me, just a 3 star read, with the biography missing its main component!

    It feels more like a series of interesting but unrelated anecdotes.

The Scientific Detective · 2018-11-07
engaging 4.00

The book effectively traces the global impact of cod, highlighting its economic and cultural significance. The inclusion of recipes and historical anecdotes adds a unique touch.

This review highlights how the book successfully traces the global journey of cod, showcasing its profound impact on economies and cultures. The reviewer particularly enjoys the unique structure of the book, which includes recipes and historical anecdotes at the start of each chapter. This approach not only educates but also engages readers, making the historical narrative more vivid and relatable. The book is praised for its ability to connect the dots between a seemingly simple fish and major historical events.

Quick quotes

    Kurlansky shows how popular salted cod became throughout the world and ages.

    Its cheaper price allowed it to be bought much more frequently.

    The inclusion of recipes and historical anecdotes adds a unique touch.

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