Can a cultural history book about the ways alcohol and drinking have shaped the American story make for an interesting book club discussion? In Susan Cheever's skilled hands, yes! Drinking in America: Our Secret History (now available in paperback from Twelve) makes a compelling case that "drinking is a cherished American custom--a way to celebrate.... It brings people together." What a perfect alignment with the aim of book clubs, and how they've become embroidered into the fabric of American literary culture.
There's plenty to probe in Cheever's well-presented tales: the 200 barrels of beer aboard the Mayflower; how rum inspired American independence; Johnny Appleseed's 66 proof applejack; famous teetotalers; liquor as a creative vice; how the destructive aspects of alcohol led to the formation of Alcoholics Anonymous and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
Alcohol stimulates societies: Russians and vodka. The Irish and Guinness. Italians and vino. In every American era, specialty drinks have risen to the fore: the advent of Mint Juleps and Old Fashioneds in the 18th century. Early 20th century Moonshine. Manhattans in 1960s. Piña Coladas and Fuzzy Navels in the '70s and '80s. For discussion: Has America leaned toward any particular "national" cocktails in the 21st century? And like James Bond's "shaken not stirred" Martinis, Hannibal Lecter's "nice" Chianti and Carrie Bradshaw's Cosmopolitans, how do you imagine some of your favorite literary characters might indulge during happy hour?
A bartender friend of mine believes the tide from the Great Recession never reached the shores of the liquor business. Regardless of the economy, alcohol consumption remains a timeless, universal lubricant for rich and poor. But one thought to mull over, perhaps while indulging in a favorite libation: will drinking lose any of its efficacy and popularity given the rise of other recreational escapes such as legalized marijuana?
Whether a book club gathers for discussion over dinner, coffee, tea or snacks--or the conversation is enhanced by wine--Drinking in America is bound to provoke "spirited" conversation--on many different levels. --Kathleen Gerard, blogger at Reading Between the Lines
