We Are What We Eat

America has often been called a great melting pot. This book was written by a world-reknowned history professor who collaborates frequently with librarians.  The author specilizes in migration, gender, and food studies.  This book is about how American culture has been and continues to be shaped by the food we eat.  America is made up of many different nationalities.  Each group brings their own dish to the table, so to speak.  America is changed each time a new ethnic group arrives, bringing their specialized dishes and traditions with them.  The author highlights how the ever-changing American identity is expressed through our eating habits.  Using food as a cultural symbol, the author explains the difference between regional, ethnic, and invented foods, such as spaghetti-O's.  The author's bottom line is:  "If we are what we eat, who are we?"