The apple chapter is brilliant, the tulip chapter is less brilliant but still entertaining, and the marijuana section — I have to doff my cap to Michael Pollan.   He’s able to write ably about pot without sounding damp and overly earnest, and he addresses some of the hoariest metaphors in the culture nimbly and clearly; it’s some outstanding writing, and it’s all the more impressive because it doesn’t draw attention to itself.   The potato chapter, I think he runs out of steam a little bit, but overall it’s such a fun read and so different in its approach; I definitely recommend it.   (7/5/04)

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