Food Discourse of Celebrity Chefs of Food Network

To read through this book was to undertake a literary journey of exploration and discovery; outside the realms of my personal experience. It proved to be a page turner. I was lead through many of the varied and diverse culinary programs of the food net work , able to examine not only the linguistics but given an in depth view of the American cultural relationship with food. The various shows and their dishes, indeed some recipes and locations are clearly discussed and illustrated . Examples range from mothers own home cooking to the finest of dinning. Regional variations and the cultural influences from outside the United States are also studied. From my aspect as a British expatriate vegan, with a whole food ideal ,living in Central America, it was a voyage into a world unknown and from this perspective, fascinating . As a student of nothing except living in general, I was daunted by the scholarly title, however, keen to look beyond my horizons I launched in. I need not have worried, it is a treat to read in a style which flows from show to show, chapter to chapter. Written with passion ( the research is in depth and substantial ) and clearly with a love of subject this book gives a clear idea of how the media utilizes linguistics to enrich and entice the audience of the food network. It explores beyond language to the fundamentals of social interaction, gestures ,expressions and what it takes to communicate successfully to an audience and to one another. All examples are illustrated with notes on individual shows the personalities that present and drive these shows and many photographs. This work can be read from either the perspective of a student ; There is much to learn and much research with documentation to take the student further in any aspect the book covers. I read this work as it stands : to gain a sneak peek behind the scenes of the media world and enrich my understanding of what makes us all tick.Above all one is left with a clearer sense of the importance of the relationship between cultures and food . It left me thinking ; I hope wiser; and more aware of the great demonstrations of love for one another within the family and culture as family and friends gather for their meal.