A COMMUNITY BETWEEN THE COVERSA Review of The Tofu Tollbooth, a Guide to Natural Food Stores and Cafes in the United Statesby Kerry CohenIt�s rare that those in the spotlight use their fame for good causes. But Dar Williams, a well-known contemporary folksinger, did just that by putting together The Tofu Tollbooth, a guidebook for wholesome eating throughout the United States. And, like most folksongs, the guidebook is for �The People.� Friends worked together to write it, friends were made in the process of writing it, and the writers encourage you to join in its continued creation by including a �New Store Entry Form.� In this way, the book is like a community between the covers�a gathering of people concerned for people�s health and the health of the planet. Williams conceived the idea so she could �survive on the road� while touring. And what a fantastic idea it was. The Tofu Tollbooth contains more than 1,000 food stores and cafes, carefully screened by Williams, co-writer Elizabeth Zipern, and their friends. The guide is organized by state and city, and each feature details a description of the eatery, phone number, hours, and driving directions. In addition, selections are keyed with sixteen playful, hand-drawn icons for various conveniences and amenities, including the presence of a caf�, salad bar, bakery, juice bar, wheelchair access, bathroom, and more. The authors mark �hot spots� with chilies, directing readers to scenic must-sees or interesting venues, museums, shops, campsites, and more. They also include �Organic Facts� to inform readers of issues surrounding organic foods. These shaded boxes are truly informative. Organic Fact No.7, Protect Water Quality, reads, �The EPA estimates pesticides, some cancer causing, contaminate the groundwater in 38 states, polluting the primary source of drinking water for more than half the country�s population.� And instead of leaving their readers with bad news, the writers give you a chance to make change. The Organic Facts lead to information about and a plea to join the campaign to �Save Organic Standards.� To order your copy of The Tofu Tollbooth for $14.95 (plus $4.00 p/h), contact: Ceres Press -Updated 11-16-00- |
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