Norman Wirzba’s new book, Food & Faith: A Theology of Eating was reviewed by Mary Bowling on Englewood Review of Books.
Bowling writes that the new book is more of a Christian theology book than a book for foodies:
(Wirzba takes) the subject of food and eating- a subject that many people feel strongly about, although maybe for somewhat vague reasons- and locate(s) it firmly within the realm of the goodness of God’s creation. The fact that food and eating are central to all life is easily taken for granted….For Wirzba, life and food and eating and faith are all gracious gifts proceeding from the God of creation. The act of eating is itself fraught with significance, even aside from questions about animal husbandry, land conservation, and nutritional value. Eating establishes us firmly within the world of the living and every time we take a bite we proclaim that we are full participants in creation. We must also acknowledge with every meal and with every bite that life is a gift that is continually given. However, with each sustaining bite we not only receive life, but taste death.
Bowding suggest that the 230 page book is filled with food for thought, and that it would be good for study groups because “…like all rich, filling, and abundant meals the best course of action for most people is probably to share.”