Twain’s Feast

Mark Twain, beloved American writer, performer, and humorist, was a self-proclaimed glutton. With the help of a chef and some friends, Nick Offerman presents the story of Twain’s life through the lens of eight of Mark Twain’s favorite foods. As we explore these foods’ role in Samuel Clemens’ life, we also discover a surprising culinary and ecological history of America. The biggest celebrity of his time, Twain was a witness to a transforming country, and with historian and writer Andrew Beahrs as a guide, Beahrs and Offerman take documentary excursions across America, illuminating each dish and bringing to life a broad sampling of Twain’s writing. Twain’s Feast is a rollicking information-packed journey into the rich culinary history of America, with the sharp eye and unmistakable wit of Mark Twain himself.

Portions of this audiobook contain mature language and themes. Listener discretion is advised.

©2018 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2018 Audible Originals, LLC

Pushing a story that isn’t t there

Although based on a real book, this audible story seems quite forced. There is not enough “meat” in it. Parts are slow and belabored as if the writers are trying to create a story that isn’t really there. I would have liked to have heard more of Twain’s writings about food and his experiences around food. Also more of his humor.

Also, there are disconcerting lengthy pauses between sections. Several times I thought the recording was “broken”, but it was just again a too lengthy pause.

Delightful

A simply lovely series of meditations using Twain’s dream dinner list (I imagine this is what Sam would have used Pinterest for ;)) as a jumping of point to discuss all sorts of topics related to the dishes in some way as well as giving a potted biography of the man himself.

All strung together by the narration of Offerman.

An absolute delight, add it to your library now!

a view through a modern lens misses the genius

Offerman as both participant and narrator is confusing. they missed the central theme of Huck Finn totally.

Good Twain/history read, doesn't stick to premise

the premise of this book is it they're going to go through a list of Mark Twain's favorite foods and prepare a feast accordingly. they do this while also talking about why these foods are important, and what they have to do with Twain's life and the surrounding events in American history. The stuff about Twain's life in American history is pretty good, my only disappointment is that they started off right away by veering away from what Twain menu would have consisted of, and then at some point they just dropped that idea altogether. I kind of wanted to hear more about the food but they just sort of gave up talking about it. I also would have liked to hear more from Wanda Sykes and the other guests

Interesting and fun

This book was fun to listen. The attempt to recreate a XIX century menu led to some interesting and complicated turns as the chefs endeavored to be as faithful to Mark Twain's recipe collection - not easy. The selected readings interspersed throughout were appropriate and typical of Twain. A strong Audible Original.