Salt: A World History

by Mark Kurlansky
Salt: A World History cover
Good Books rating 4.24
History
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  • ID: 1041
  • Added: 2025-09-24
  • Updated: 2025-11-28
  • ISBN: 9780802713735
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA
  • Published: 2002-01-01
  • Formats: 22
  • Reviews: 4

Salt is not just a seasoning; it's a substance that has shaped human history in countless ways. From ancient trade routes to modern health debates, this book explores the fascinating journey of salt through time. It delves into the cultural, economic, and even political significance of this humble mineral, revealing how it has been a catalyst for change and innovation. /n/n Beyond its historical impact, salt continues to play a crucial role in our daily lives. This book examines the science behind salt, its various uses, and the ongoing debates about its health effects. Whether you're a history buff or a food enthusiast, Salt offers a compelling look at a substance that is as essential as it is extraordinary.

Reviews
Cannonball Read · Tracy · 2023-10-25
exceptional 4.50

The book is praised for its exceptional attention to detail and dry humor, making it both educational and entertaining. The author's research is thorough without being showy.

Tracy from Cannonball Read highlights Kurlansky's exceptional attention to detail in Salt: A World History. They appreciate how the author's thorough research is presented in a way that is both educational and entertaining, without feeling like a show-off. Tracy also notes the dry humor scattered throughout the book, which adds a layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. Overall, they find the book to be a well-researched and engaging exploration of salt's impact on history.

Quick quotes

    Kurlansky's attention to detail is exceptional. He has really done his research, but he's not showing off.

    There are bits of dry humor that show the author's wit and make the book more enjoyable.

    The book is both educational and entertaining, making it a great read for history enthusiasts.

Dial H for Houston · 2021-08-22
informative 3.20

The book provides a detailed account of salt's production and use throughout history, offering a unique perspective on world history. The narrative is engaging but can feel disjointed at times.

The review from Dial H for Houston highlights how Salt: A World History flits from one era and locale to the next, detailing the unique ways salt was produced, controlled, and used throughout history. They appreciate the depth of research and the unique angle the book takes on world history. However, they also note that the book's structure can feel disjointed, making it sometimes challenging to follow a clear narrative thread. Despite this, they find the book to be a valuable addition to anyone's understanding of history.

Quick quotes

    Salt: A World History flits from one era and locale to the next, detailing many of the unique ways salt was produced, controlled, and used throughout history.

    The book offers a unique perspective on world history through the lens of salt.

    The narrative can feel disjointed at times, making it challenging to follow a clear thread.

BostonWriters · 2017-08-24
intriguing 4.50

The book provides a unique perspective on world history through the lens of salt, highlighting its significant impact on various cultures and economies. The narrative is engaging and well-researched, making it an enlightening read.

In this book, the history of the world is explored through the prism of salt, showcasing how this humble mineral has shaped civilizations. The author delves into the economic and cultural significance of salt, revealing its role in trade, warfare, and even social status. The writing is engaging and meticulously researched, offering a fresh and fascinating perspective on history. The book is not just about salt; it's about the interconnectedness of human societies and their reliance on natural resources. The narrative flows smoothly, making complex historical events accessible and intriguing. However, some readers might find the sheer volume of information a bit overwhelming, but for those interested in history and food science, it's a treasure trove of knowledge.

Quick quotes

    In Salt, Mark Kurlansky reviews the history of the world through the lens of mankind's dependence on salt.

    Access to salt (or the lack of it) has shaped civilizations and economies.

    The narrative flows smoothly, making complex historical events accessible and intriguing.

The New York Times · 2002-02-24
fascinating 4.75

The book is a comprehensive exploration of salt's role in world history, filled with fascinating revelations and detailed accounts. It's a world history of salt, but also a history of the world through the lens of salt.

This book is a dizzying journey through the history of salt, revealing its profound impact on human civilization. The author's attention to detail is commendable, and the book is filled with countless revelations that highlight salt's role in various historical events. From trade routes to wars, salt has been a pivotal element in shaping the world as we know it. The narrative is engaging and well-researched, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts. The book's strength lies in its ability to connect seemingly disparate events through the common thread of salt. However, the sheer volume of information might be overwhelming for some, but for those who appreciate a deep dive into history, it's a rewarding experience.

Quick quotes

    Kurlansky's dizzying new book, ''Salt: A World History,'' has countless such revelations.

    This is indeed a world history of salt. But it is also a history of the world through the lens of salt.

    From trade routes to wars, salt has been a pivotal element in shaping the world as we know it.

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