Salt cover art

Salt

A World History

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Salt

By: Mark Kurlansky
Narrated by: Scott Brick
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About this listen

The author of Cod and The Basque History of the World takes an extraordinary look at an ordinary substance — salt, the only rock humans eat — and how it has shaped civilization from the very beginning. Mark Kurlansky has produced a kaleidoscope of history, a multi-layered masterpiece that blends economic, scientific, political, religious, and culinary records into a rich and memorable tale.

©2003 Mark Kurlansky (P)2006 Phoenix Books, Inc. Civilisation Earth Sciences Food & Wine Gastronomy Nature & Ecology Outdoors & Nature Science World Africa Latin America Imperialism Middle Ages Military Food Science Ancient History Nutrition British Empire
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This is a unique insight into world history through the lens of salt as it affects economies and lifestyles. The narrator brings out the dry humour, sharp observations and wistfulness of the author.

Fascinating history, well told

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Very interesting book to listen too. I found it to be well researched and written , plus delivered in a enjoyable manner.

Salt review

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Great book, take somthing as simple as salt and look at it in a whole new way. Understanding the power and control it had, and still does is worth the read. A highly recommend read.

Salty sweet goodness

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Loved it. A bit dense for me in the middle. Picked back up at the end.

Full of things you didn't know you didn't know

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I survived, healed and thrived on unrefined wholesome salt and water only for 33 days. No food, no liquids, just water and wholesome salt.... got rid of almost 37 ailments that plagued my body. went to an island in Philippines and spent almost nothing, just a cheap. rental. beach, water, salt and swimming daily. You can do it! it will cost you less than your coffee addiction 😍

If you only knew!

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This book is such fun. A delightful mix of science, history, personalities, wars, culture all skillfully told and the central character the rock we eat. Have read twice. Great non fiction.

It will make you hungry

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Aside from the fascinating chapter on Chinese history, this felt flat, essentially a series of facts and anecdotes. I’ve really enjoyed other books by Kurlansky (particularly The Big Oyster) but this one was a bit dull.

Oversalted

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Interesting topic and historical vignettes. The authors passion and research clearly come through. My primary critique is there is a lot of repetition of information and a bit of a feeling that there is little to say in 13 hours. The book was well read and works best in short sessions to avoid the sameness of the chapters.

A good book to dip into

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.