Tobacco: A Cultural History of How an Exotic Plant Seduced Civilization

I really do not understand the objections that other reviewers had to this book. Gately put together a lively, enchanting narrative concerning the history of tobacco. He covers a great many things and does not fail to include the words of those who once sung its praises. That's what should be done whenever one wishes to tell a "complete" story about anything. He does not self-censor his prose which is exactly what those of us most interested in the truth deeply desire. This book isn't titled "Quit Smoking," it's a cultural history of tobacco. Anyway, Gately presents statistics and analysis elucidating the dangers inherent to using the infamous weed. He outlines the positions of the state and depicts lung cancer as the private hell it clearly is. Smoking is a personal choice and there's no reason to ban it as the prohibition of substances has not met with much success over the years. I'm sure the author would agree with my conclusion but that does not mean he is depicting tobacco in a favorable light. This book was a serious page-turner and I enjoyed it very much. I recommend it without reservation.

I work at the largest cigar lounge in Texas and I read this book to become more familiar with tobacco in general and cigars in particular. The author is decidedly opinionated, well versed on the subject, mildly cynical, amusing and always interesting. I read several chapters at the lounge while relaxing and enjoying bourbon and cigars on my day off.As for tobacco's dangers; well, I ride motorcycles, enjoy well made firearms and smoke cigars. All of which are individual activities and not for everyone. It comes down to a personal choice as to how you wish to live and enjoy life. Just remember, moderation in all things is a good guide to life.If you have an interest in the history of tobacco and its use, I believe you would find the book a fine intro and overview of a fascinating and controversial subject.

What would possess someone to write a book about the history of the world through the lens of tobacco, I have no idea. But this book succeeds in making a compelling argument that entire civilizations, if not modern civilization itself, has been shaped by mankind's incessant need to smoke something — particularly tobacco. The chapters dealing with the early years of tobacco were, predictably, a little slow, filled with sort of arcane and odd facts that at times felt like they were merely being used to illustrate how brutal mankind once was. The writing wasn't particularly showy; and yet, I found myself continuing to read, wanting to know more about how tobacco had taken the world by storm. The progression from smoking a pipe, to snuff, to chewing, to cigars and then cigarettes was sort of fascinating to see laid out, although the final 100 pages or so are dominated less about tobacco as a thing (which by then has been established) and more about the myriad scientific studies, legal battles and advertising efforts made by big tobacco in their efforts to continue remaining profitable. Throughout, the author remains rather neutral, rarely tipping his hand unless pointing out a blatant hypocrisy regarding the marketing or criticism of tobacco. Without trying, he paints a portrait of cigarettes being quite a deadly thing to partake in smoking; whereas cigars and pipe tobacco, much less so.

One of the best books about tobacco, with so many interesting data. The author gives you a complete (general) historical vision on a very entertainment text, wich gets to the point of the title. You may not agree with all the author's opinions, the tobacco modern conflicts make it a controversial theme, but the work is about tobacco history, is not a "pro" or "anti" smoking kind of book. A very pleasant reading. I recomend you this book if you are interested in tobacco, and if you enjoy reading history books.

Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known. It is stronger than crack cocaine or heroin. Nicotine addiction is the single largest preventable cause of death in the world. It kills more people than all other addiction and addiction related deaths combined. Nicotine addiction is drug addiction. I work as an addiction recovery specialist, and I know all about the effects of tobacco and nicotine physiologically, emotionally and mentally. I know about the 12 Steps of Nicotine Anonymous, and how they work to help people recover from nicotine addiction. I thought I knew a little bit about tobacco, how it came from the Native Americans, brought back to the old world by European explorers, etc.,This book blew me away with the detailed history of the rise and fall of tobacco acceptance and prohibition throughout the centuries. I had no idea of that at one time in England, using tobacco could be punishable by death - until the new king was himself a nicotine addict... I recommend this book to anyone touched by nicotine and/or tobacco - which is just about everyone in the world. It give a great world-view of this highly addictive and deadly drug.

This book is engaging though its last few chapters are a little slow. The author seems to speak freely neither for or against smoking tobacco. There are interesting facts about its history and usage around the world.

Interesting subject, well written, some depth, enough to keep it interesting but not to the point of putting the reader to sleep. The writer knows how to hit that sweet spot. I definitely enjoyed it.

A smooth read with plenty of wit. I've included a small excerpt that tickled my funny bone and is typical of the text.

A most excellent and well researched history of the tobacco plant and its impact on society ancient and modern. Worth the price.

Every high school kid and anyone who smokes should read this book!!!

not wot I thought it was tells more of its origins I had hope it would be imformative on how to grow and process tobaco