Book Review Summary: The Best American Food Writing 2022

Introduction

"The Best American Food Writing 2022" is a collection of the year's top food writing, curated by guest editor Sohla El-Waylly and series editor Silvia Killingsworth. This book celebrates the diverse, innovative, comforting, and culturally rich culinary offerings of America through twenty thought-provoking articles published in 2021. From exploring the impact of the pandemic on the food industry to delving into the history and cultural significance of various dishes, this anthology provides a comprehensive and engaging read for food enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the complex relationships we have with food.

About Sohla El-Waylly

Sohla El-Waylly, the guest editor of "The Best American Food Writing 2022," is a culinary creator, writer, and community advocate. With a background in food journalism and a passion for exploring the intersection of food and culture, El-Waylly brings her expertise and unique perspective to the selection of articles for this collection. Her dedication to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives in the food writing world makes her an ideal choice for curating this annual anthology.

Analysis of Views

Diversity of Perspectives: Readers appreciate the variety of perspectives, cultures, and places presented in the book. The articles cover a wide range of topics, from exploring the history of food to examining contemporary issues such as injustices faced by bike food deliverers. The diversity of voices and experiences adds depth and richness to the collection.
Emotional and Thought-Provoking: Many readers found the articles in this book to be emotional and thought-provoking. They delve into complex topics such as trauma, love, and abuse related to food, providing a deeper understanding of the personal and psychological aspects of our relationship with food. The articles challenge readers to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives.
Informative and Entertaining: Readers found the book informative and entertaining. They appreciated the combination of food details and sociological insights presented in each article. The collection offers a mix of lighthearted stories, such as personal experiences with spicy rodent tape, alongside more serious topics that touch on social issues and cultural implications.
Pandemic-Specific Content: Several articles in the book address the impact of the pandemic on the food industry and dining experiences. Readers found these pandemic-specific essays to be particularly relevant and interesting, as they provide insight into how the pandemic has shaped our relationship with food in various ways.
Engaging Writing Style: Many readers praised the engaging writing style of the contributors. They appreciated the way authors presented their ideas and stories, making even unconventional topics accessible and enjoyable to read. The combination of informative content and captivating writing made the book a delightful read for many.

Reasons for Recommendation

Diversity and Variety: The book offers a diverse range of perspectives and topics, making it appealing to readers with different interests. The inclusion of articles on various cultures, cuisines, and social issues adds depth and breadth to the collection.
Thought-Provoking Content: The articles in this book challenge readers to think critically about their relationship with food, its cultural significance, and its impact on society. They encourage reflection on personal experiences and broader societal issues related to food.
Engaging Writing Style: The engaging writing style of the contributors makes reading the book enjoyable. The combination of informative content with captivating storytelling makes it easy for readers to become immersed in the stories presented.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Thematic Diversity: Some readers felt that the volume lacked thematic diversity compared to previous editions in the series. While there were diverse perspectives represented, too many articles shared similar themes or approaches, which made the collection feel less cohesive overall.
Slower Pacing: A few readers found certain articles to be meandering or slow-paced, which made it difficult for them to fully engage with the content. While these articles provided valuable insights, some readers felt that they could have been presented more concisely or effectively.

Conclusion

"The Best American Food Writing 2022" is a collection of thought-provoking articles that celebrate America's diverse culinary landscape. Guest editor Sohla El-Waylly has curated a selection of twenty essays that explore everything from personal experiences with food to broader social issues related to cuisine. While some readers found certain articles slow-paced or lacking in thematic diversity compared to previous editions, overall, the book is praised for its engaging writing style, emotional depth, and informative content. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply interested in exploring the complexities of our relationship with food, this anthology offers a fascinating journey into America's culinary world.