We’re not talking coffee-table books here (although that does give me inspiration for a later post), but books specifically on the subject of – what else, coffee.
Yes, the internet is a great resource for information on absolutely everything (including coffee), but if you’re somewhat serious about learning more about the famous brew – from bean to cup, it makes good sense to arm yourself with some hard copies for your home library.
Here are some of the best recommendations we’ve found, from a site called “Coffee Search“. Each one was written by an industry pro, so rest assured you’ll be in good hands.
1. Coffee Basics : A Quick and Easy Guide by Kevin Knox.
Kevin Knox was the Specialty Coffee buyer for Starbucks, and he uses his experience to describe in precise detail how to prepare an excellent cup of coffee. Highly recommended for beginners.
2. Home Coffee Roasting: Romance & Revival by Kenneth Davids.
Comprehensive book about home roasting and why it can change the way you drink coffee. A must!
3. Espresso Coffee: Professional Techniques by David Schomer.
This book is currently the best book available for describing espresso preparation. Good for baristas or coffee shop owner.
4. The Devil’s Cup: Coffee, the Driving by Stewart Lee Allen.
The history of coffee in an entertaining way. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to cultivate their understanding of coffee’s influence on history.
5. Uncommon Grounds: The History of Coffee by Mark Pendergrast.
An excellent book about coffee history and the coffee market, more relevant to modern history.
6. The Coffee Book: Anatomy of an Industry
Another great introductory books about coffee history. Easier to read than Uncommon Grounds, with very useful information.
7. Coffee: Recent Developments by R. J. Clarke (Editor), O. G. Vitzthum (Editor).
Highly scientific and is recommended only for coffee professionals and scientists.
8. Coffee Flavor Chemistry by Ivon Flament.
A fascinating book detailing many of the chemical constituents found in coffee and their influence on flavor and aroma.
Originally posted on September 2, 2006 @ 12:18 pm