50 States, 5000 Ideas is a fact-filled, fascinating book covering all 50 states. It includes the usual tourist information – visitor centers, websites, road trips, and highlights about each specific state – but it also includes unique information and tidbits such as little known facts, “state of the art” that includes movies, songs, art, and plays about the specific state, and foods each state is famous for. I am not a fan of travel books but I had a great time reading this one! I learned some truly interesting things and it tweaked my interest in visiting some states I had not thought of visiting before. It is worth reading even if you are not going on a trip anytime soon.

This culinary travel guide is broken up into eight regions of the United States and includes dishes you may find in a local neighborhood diner or in a local Rotary Club cookbook. The dishes are specific to each region and celebrates and reflects the diverse cultures and ethnic influences across the United States. Mario Batali included dishes he enjoyed while traveling across the United States and visiting smaller town and cities for the past 40 years. The recipes are easy to follow and delicious. I made a few – the Kentucky Hot Browns, Hanky Pankies, and Swedish Pancakes were delicious! In addition to the recipes, each region also includes a very enlightening history of the area and “roadside treasures” to watch for while visiting. This is a fun and delicious tour of our United States.