Three star review, originally posted here on April 21, 2024.
This book tells the history of a fish.
That’s pretty much it.
Now, sometimes books come along that are about a seemingly boring or inconsequential topic, but then the writing style or the subject matter itself is so mind-blowingly amazing that this niche topic sucks you right in. It surprises you. It has you stopping every few lines to scream out “OMG! I had no idea!” It makes you insufferable at dinner parties, because you just can’t stop babbling on and on about XYZ topic in this amazing book you’ve been reading.
This is NOT that book.
This book is about fish. Again, this book is about fish. It is not a sexy topic. It is not a sexy book. It is Just. About. Fish.
Now, if you find fish and fishing interesting, then great! This book is for you! You’re gonna love it! You’re going to know all about the history of fishing for cod! You’re going to learn which countries fish cod more than others, and how sometimes there is more cod, but sometimes there is less cod. You’ll learn about how people fish for cod, and where. You’ll hear quotes from literature or historical figures referencing cod. You’ll be provided with several recipes for cod. All the cod-related information you could ever want, it is in this book.
There is nothing wrong with the book. It seems thorough and well-researched. Facts were presented. It was not confusing. It was fine. If you care about fish.
If you love cod, you will love this book.
If you expect to be surprised by your newfound interest in cod, this book is not for you.
If you find cod super boring, this book will be super boring to you.
If you don’t mind listening to dry history about a fish but aren’t excited about it or anything, then you will give this book a nice neutral 3 stars.
Helga without the H 