It's the only rock we eat, and we need to eat it to live. It has shaped ancient civilizations, helped build empires, led to major scientific developments—and it tastes good on French fries.  It's salt!

Having delighted young readers with the ALA Notable Book The Cod's Tale, Mark Kurlansky and S.D. Schindler now turn their attention to salt. With a playful mix of witty illustrations, informative sidebars, and illuminating maps, The Story of Salt shows both the scientific and historical ways that salt has shaped the world.

Based on Mark Kurlansky's acclaimed New York Times adult best seller Salt: A World History, The Story of Salt provides an unusual look at a substance that has fascinated and preoccupied economies since the beginning of time—a substance we often take for granted. Enjoy it with your favorite salty treat!

From the dust jacket