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The Salt Roads

How Fish Made a Culture
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( 68 ratings, 7 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Salt Roads by John Goodlad delves into the rich history of the northern islands, exploring the cultural and historical significance of salt. The book traces the impact of this essential commodity on trade, societal changes, and military movements throughout time. It's a fascinating journey that uncovers the lesser-known stories of communities shaped by this essential mineral.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2799
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you are fascinated by the historical and cultural significance of salt in shaping societies. It explores the maritime history of the salt trade, revealing stories of seafaring adventures and the economic impact of this crucial commodity. Ideal for readers interested in history and the intriguing role of trade in human development.

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This book tells the extraordinary story of Shetland's most enduring export. It ranges from the wild waters of the North Atlantic and the remote ice filled fjords of west Greenland to the Basque country, from the fishing grounds of Iceland to the Jewish shtetls of Poland and from the mountains of Faroe to the flat coastline of the Netherlands.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

This is the extraordinary story of how salt fish from Shetland became one of the staple foods of Europe, powered an economic boom, and inspired artists, writers, and musicians.

It ranges from the wild waters of the North Atlantic, the ice-filled fjords of Greenland, and the remote islands of Faroe to the dining tables of London's middle classes, the bacalao restaurants of Spain, and the Jewish shtetls of Eastern Europe.

As well as following the historical thread and exploring how very different cultures were drawn together by the salt fish trade, John Goodlad meets those whose lives revolve around the industry in the twenty-first century and addresses today's pressing themes of sustainability, climate change, and food choices.

'A masterclass in how to make history approachable, accessible, readable, and entertaining' - Ken Lussey, Undiscovered Scotland

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Salt Roads by John Goodlad is praised for its illuminating exploration of the North Atlantic fishing industry, examining the historical significance of cod and herring harvesting. The narrative delves into the influence of the Shetland Islands and the Faroes on global food supplies, presenting history in an accessible and entertaining manner. The book captures the cultural and economic impact of the Shetland fishing industry, offering an insightful story that combines elements of history, personal memoir, and folk tales. Critics commend its readability and engaging storytelling, providing a profound understanding of the Shetland Islands' role beyond its remote shores.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781780278285

Publisher: Birlinn General

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 August 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Birlinn Ltd

Edition: New in Paperback

Illustration: 12pp b/w plates

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 260g

Pages: 272

About the Author

John Goodlad is a Shetlander who works in the seafood industry. He was the voice of the Shetland fishing industry as CEO of the Shetland Fishermen's Association for many years before becoming a fish farmer. He now advises several national and international seafood organisations and companies. His previous book,The Cod Hunters, was shortlisted for the Maritime Foundation's Mountbatten Award for Best Maritime Book in 2020.

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