54 pages 1 hour read

Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1997

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Book Brief

Mark Kurlansky

Cod

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

294

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

North Atlantic • Millennia

Theme
Environment

Animals

Food
Topic
Science & Nature

Animals

World History
Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

1200L

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Super Short Summary

Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World by Mark Kurlansky traces the history of human exploitation of North Atlantic cod, from Viking air-drying practices to modern industrial fishing, demonstrating cod's crucial role in economic activities and historical events including early trans-Atlantic journeys, colonial conflicts, the American Revolution, and the industrialization of fisheries.

Informative

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

25,132 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Mark Kurlansky's Cod receives praise for its engaging storytelling and informative blend of history, culture, and environmental science. Critics commend its depth and readability. However, some note it can be overly detailed and occasionally sidetracks. Despite minor critiques, it remains a compelling exploration of the fish that changed the world.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Cod?

Readers who enjoy Cod by Mark Kurlansky are typically history buffs and food enthusiasts, curious about economic and environmental impacts of fish. Comparably, fans of Salt by Kurlansky or The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan will appreciate its intricate storytelling and deep dive into a single subject’s global significance.

4.1

25,132 ratings

71%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

294

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

North Atlantic • Millennia

Theme
Environment

Animals

Food
Topic
Science & Nature

Animals

World History
Publication Year

1997

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

1200L

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