Foodprints: The Story of What We Eat

Gr 6 Up—Take a trip from prehistory to the present day in seven chapters focusing on various aspects of food and food politics including the evolution of the human diet, the industrial food complex, the nutrition debate, food science and other additives, marketing, regulations, and the current food climate in North America. The topic is presented through a historical lens, which enhances the perspective; for instance, Ayer discusses how and why USDA nutrition guidelines have changed over time and the politics behind these decisions. Each chapter includes an easy-to-understand infographic with facts and figures as well as a "Food for Thought" summary at the end, which provides a few takeaways and activities. The tone is chatty but not overly so, and while it's clear that Ayer believes in the importance of making sustainable food choices, she encourages readers to make their own decisions. Mostly illustrated with cartoonish drawings, the book also sprinkles a few photos throughout.