This interesting, creative book blends academic scholarship with beer industry expertise to produce a unique sociological and psychological perspective on the function and meaning of beer, especially craft beers, in American society…. The authors critically assess the subjective meanings of authenticity, quality, and taste, which forces readers to reflect on the many taken-for-granted expressions of beer consumption. The authors also address the racial, class, and gendered dynamics of beer drinking, which provides an avenue for exploring how beer drinking reinforces cultural values while challenging the divisions underlying society. This well-written book blends academic arguments with a personalized style that allows general readers, beer connoisseurs, brewers, and industry specialists to understand the nuances of the beer industry and the social and psychological impact beer drinking has had on society. Highly recommended. General readers through faculty; professionals.
