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The American Way of Eating: Undercover at Walmart, Applebee’s Farm Fields and the Dinner Table by Tracie McMillan is a report of the author’s year studying some typical parts of the American food supply chain. The author went undercover in all those areas to try and find out what it was really like to work in these different areas. She found out in an up close and personal way that life working in the standard parts of the American food supply is not easy and does not pay well. Often she found herself barely able to support herself as a single young woman.
I found the book rather interesting especially when she writes about what it is like behind the scenes at Walmart or at Applebee’s. Since I have never worked in those places but have purchased food in those settings it can be illuminating to know what goes on behind the scenes. Ms. McMillan has a good sense of what goes on and is adept at writing about it. She is not completely negative about either place, but does manage to find some good in the middle of fairly disturbing circumstances. But it does not leave the reader with a good feeling about what happens in our food system.
The author’s solutions all revolve around government solutions. I am a committed believer in limited government, so did not find myself agreeing with her over the suggested solutions to the problems. We can agree on problems though. I don’t really have answers for these problems either but more creative minds than I may be able to come up with ways to address some of the issues in our food supply and workforce.
I found the book worthwhile for analyzing problems in our American food system. And I found the writer fairly interesting to read. I would give this book 3 out of 5 stars.
I am giving away my hardback copy of this book to one of my blog readers. To enter simply leave a comment on this post as to why you would like to read the book. I will select 1 person at random from those who comment. The giveaway is now closed. Winner to be announced shortly.
And if you don’t win you are welcome to purchase your own copy to read from Amazon with my affiliate link below.
I would love to learn more about this way of life.
I would love to read this book and share it with my family – my family needs to know about the better way of eating!
I would love to win “The American Way of Eating” because books like this. as well as “The Meat Racket” and “Food, Inc.”‘ open our eyes to how giant corporations actually run. As a small farmer I believe I try to keep up on reading these amazing books, so that I can share what I learn with as many blog followers or neighbors as possible. Thank you!
Hello, I am a nutrition coach and educator. I would love to read your book and perhaps be able to refer it to clients and students. Thank you
I love reading books like this…..so interesting!!
This looks like a really interesting book! I’m always looking for more resources about diet and nutrition, particularly how we can fix our current health crisis.
I love reading about the inner workings of the food industry!
Sounds like an interesting book Jennifer! I truly believe that diet totally influences health and I am always eager to learn more! Thanks for the opportunity to win!
Sounds interesting. Would love to read more.
im very curious to see how she portrays working in Applesbees, I’m very familiar with corporate restaurants and would like to see her conclusions,
Looks like a fascinating book – there is so much that goes on behind the scenes that most people never think of. In order for there to be a grassroots movement, we need to be informed, which is why the book is important!
I like hearing different views on people’s experiences within the food industry. (My cousin in a chef, so I’ve heard lots of stories!).
I’m intrigued – I’m all about seeing better practices on our food. I do wonder how Applebee’s fits into her book. Would love to read it.