R B. reviewed Something From the Oven: Reinventing Dinner in 1950s America on + 203 more book reviews
The first two chapters seemed repetitive to me. The book later picks up steam. Mostly this book describes the evolution, albeit guided or manipulated, of women's roles in family life as described through dinner and domesticity.
Theresa L. (absolutahnie) reviewed Something From the Oven: Reinventing Dinner in 1950s America on + 11 more book reviews
really interesting reading about the evolution
of food and it's marketing.
of food and it's marketing.
Connie A. (jazzysmom) -
I grew up during the 50's so this was such a fun book to read. What made it so fun was it brought back memories i had forgotten i even had formed, because at the time things were happening i did not know anything different . I was a kid and just always thought "cake mixes" were always available. I also thought every one wore aprons and did not know women were coached on what to talk about at dinner parties. The whole picture now in print will make one say--"oh my gosh i forgot about that, or yup my mom did that too". The writing was great. If you are from this era....check this book out... grab some coffee from your plug in electric coffee percolator, untie your apron, straighten your pearls and hose seams and relax, promise this book will make you smile.
Elizabeth R. (esjro) -
This is an interesting history of food and domestic cooking in the '50s and 60s, that was surprisingly readable. The author has a dry sense of humor, and is at her best when describing some of the convenience foods people threw together and called a recipe. (Many of these dishes featured Jello and ketchup).
Occasionally some sections dragged on a bit too long (e.g. Betty Friedan), but for the most part this book is a lot of fun. Anyone who grew up on entrees involving a can of condensed soup will enjoy it.
Occasionally some sections dragged on a bit too long (e.g. Betty Friedan), but for the most part this book is a lot of fun. Anyone who grew up on entrees involving a can of condensed soup will enjoy it.
