Food: The New Gold

Gr 9 Up–World hunger is not a new issue, but a heightened awareness of what we eat, how it is produced, where it comes from, and why people around the globe are still dying of starvation in this time of apparent plenty is garnering more and more attention all the time. Gay presents a solid introduction to the science, politics, and social concerns surrounding food and its production. Myriad issues are discussed, including such current topics as genetically modified foods, seed saving, agribusiness, and many, many more that affect individuals looking to eat more conscientiously as well as those trying to eradicate global hunger. The subjects are presented in a fairly balanced manner, with sources from both sides of the more controversial issues quoted and noted, though chapter titles such as "Frankenfoods" and "Industrial Farming: Hazardous to Your Health?" provide a glimpse at the author’s leanings. Sidebars of slightly tangential, yet equally intriguing, topics, such as the Green Revolution or food recycling, supplement the primary discussion of world hunger. Photographs and diagrams are informative, and the end matter is extremely useful, especially the further-reading suggestions.  Though all are likely to agree that world hunger is a problem that needs solving, there is little agreement on the best methods for reaching that solution; this title provides an accessible, up-to-date primer for interested readers. Jody Kopple