The author traces the history of the hamburger, from its humble beginnings as a 19th century street food all the way to the ubiquitous food item that it is today. He also discusses how the image of the hamburger has become iconic, as well as the nutritional and cultural conflicts raised by the “McDonaldization” of not only American culture, but international culture as well.

This book is a well-written history of the hamburger, as well as a history of America. The author also comes up with two very believable theories: the identity of the actual inventor of the hamburger, and how a simple sandwich became an American icon.

The 2005 documentary DVD that is included with the book showcases Motz’s travels across the country where he documented 8 classic burger restaurants. Since 2005, the author has kept up his burger travels and in this book he features 100 hamburger joints in 39 states. I really like that the author limited his selections to independently owned Mom-and-Pop restaurants that use fresh foods. Motz also includes recipes and contact information for the restaurants... this is a fun read.

Lots of history, lore and colorful ads and graphics about everyone’s favorite sandwich, the hamburger.

The carmelized onion and blue cheese burger, burgers stuffed with goat cheese, and a delicious-sounding spicy chipotle turkey burger are all recipes that are included in this very readable cookbook, which features one burger recipe for every week of the year.