Those interested in food and things British will find this a fascinating volume, where the eating habits of the rich and poor are described from the time of the Angles and Saxons to the globalizing environment of the present. Spencer (he was food editor for the Guardian ) has assembled a wealth of information into his narrative, describing types of native plants, meat, and fish; the impact of trade; foreign and political influences; and the habits, attitudes, and issues associated with eating, meals, and different foods, particularly with regard to different classes. Many original sources are repeated, which serve to flavor the story with first-hand experiences. Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)