Proteinaholic: How Our Obsession with Meat Is Killing Us and What We Can Do About It (2015)

By Garth Davis

Too much protein? Dr. Garth Davis, a weight-loss surgeon, argues that Americans do indeed consume too much protein, thinking it will help them lose weight. But protein isn’t the key to weight loss, Davis asserts, and carbs are not the enemy. Animal protein is associated with diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer, he says.

Out of the Dog House (2018)

By Dick Portillo and Don Yaeger

Written by Dick Portillo, founder of Portillo’s, and Don Yaeger, Out of the Dog House follows the story of how he turned a modest shack into a corporation worth billions of dollars. From his upbringing to his time as CEO of Portillo’s, Portillo details his trials as a business owner and explains how he expanded his business to 60 locations without franchising a single restaurant.

Extra Virginity: The Sublime and Scandalous World of Olive Oil (2013)

By Tom Mueller

Although published 10 years ago, Extra Virginity tells a tale that’s just as relevant today as it was then—corruption in the extra virgin olive oil industry. Tom Mueller’s book guides readers on a journey through the rich history of olive oil while detailing the confusion, snobbery and ignorance that shroud the product. European officials have even compared the counterfeit olive oil business to cocaine trafficking.

The Secret Life of Groceries: The Dark Miracle of the American Supermarket (2020)

By Benjamin Lorr

After five years of research and hundreds of interviews, Benjamin Lorr writes an immersive expose on the surprisingly secretive supermarket industry. He investigates the secrets of Trader Joe’s success, reveals what it takes for food to earn “organic” or “fair trade” labels, and more. It’s an unpredictable industry, and running it demands a combination of passion and intuition, Lorr maintains.

Far too often, book reviews drive readers away. They’re written from the viewpoint of just one stranger, and taking them to heart leaves great books undiscovered. That’s why the Book Value offers profiles instead of reviews. Don’t look to this page for opinions. Think of it as a place to find writing that educates, entertains and challenges entrenched beliefs.