encyclopedias

This book has TONS of information on an enormous range of foods. It lists and describes varieties, health benefits/myths/concerns, nutritional information, history, and serving suggestions for everything from apples and asparagus to flour and sweeteners. I bought pasilla peppers at farmer's market today, and looked them up to see how they compared to anaheims in terms of flavor and heat. It's a very convenient resource.

I was recently diagnosed with type I diabetes, and this book has become absolutely essential to me. I can look up how many calories are in an avocado and how many carbohydrates are in a persimmon. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is trying to control their diet, or is just curious about their food.

Everyone should own one! Makes a great gift as well. I was fascinated by the information on phytochemicals.