This book is every bit as readable as Bourdain's "A Cook's Tour," and is a must for those of you who enjoy reading about food and its impact on various world cultures. Hopkins has a knack for exposing "extreme" foods such as dogs, cats, rats, insects, snakes, etc. in a manner which is interesting and does not cast judgement on the people who enjoy or rely on these foods for sustenance. There are pictures, RECIPES (yep -- not kidding), interesting facts, detailed histories, and general observations which will keep you turning the pages.