Green Gold

A lively and engrossing cultural history of the avocado and the people who transformed it into an American obsession

Whether youre a history buff or just enjoy a chip full of guacamole, youll be thoroughly captivated . . .Green Goldis a well researched, captivating story. Rick Bayless, James Beard Award-winning chef, author, and restaurateur

The avocado is the quintessential symbol of aspirational living, a ubiquitous agricultural favorite, and the driver of an $18 billion global industry. How did this regional Latin American staple become a star of Super Bowl ads and a byword for wellness? Documenting more than a century of cross-cultural cooperation, cutting-edge science, and savvy marketing,Green Goldtells the remarkable story of the fruits rise to prominence as both a culinary and cultural juggernaut.

Anchored by the story of two exceptional trees that stood out among hundreds of rivals,Green Goldis a spirited and often surprising behind-the-scenes look at how dedicated avocado enthusiasts in Mexico and California developed an ideal fruit to sell to the world. Navigating the Depression, two world wars, Mexican revolutions, violent drug lords, drought, and disease, these pioneers were driven by the avocados potential to captivate the palates and hearts of consumers across the globe. Their efforts, inspired by the success of California citrus, launched todays lucrative industry and helped the avocado win a place among such supermarket staples as oranges and bananas.

Set against the rise of Southern California as an economic and cultural powerhouse and featuring delightful recipes (including vintage versions of guacamole and avocado toast),Green Goldis an entertaining and far-ranging exploration of the avocados journey to a central place in the American diet and global imagination.