It was a delight to read about one of the true pioneers of American Bartending. I actually read completely through this without putting it down. Mr. Wondrich is giving us something that has been missing in our country's history books - a factual history of one of America's acheivements - the origins of the modern-day mixologist.
Being a bartender myself, it is nice to finally have an idea as to what and when the beginnings of my occupation transpired. Thank you for giving me, and those like me, the opportunity to read about Mr. Thomas' exploits and to learn some of the concoctions he came up with during his career.

Quite simply the greatest and most scholarly work on the history and culture of the cocktail to date. This book will change your life.

I have to admit that I read through much of this book in one sitting. It is just that engrossing. Wondrich brings a wry and learned manner to his writing, as well as a great enthusiasm for his subject. The downside is that you'll be spending a great deal of money on spirits and barware before you'll be satisfied. ;)

"...and after a Dry Martini or a Sazerac Cocktail or two, we're all cats." This beautiful, marvelous book is the best book I've read this year. It is part biography, part history and part mixology. If you enjoy the odd cocktail or two, you owe a measure of thanks to Jerry Thomas, the "professor". In the latter half of the 19th century, Jerry (now that I feel like I know the man) perfected and prodded forward the development of the cocktail. His life was interesting and productive. The book gives you many examples from his book (subtitled "the Bon-Vivant's Guide") with modern translations of the recipes. I have been experimenting with the recipes myself and have had one or two , um, slow mornings. Well worth it, however. Get the book for the history and enjoy it with a nice Saratoga Cocktail, or perhaps the "Tombstone". Just leave the vodka in the cabinet...forever.

This is perhaps the best cocktail book written since The Fine Art Of Mixing Drinks, astoundingly well researched (which is all to rare when writting about cocktails) and wonderfully told. Imbibe a must read for proffesional bartenders, or for those who like to fix themselves a proper drink, and think about what went into it as they enjoy their tipple. well done Mr Wondrich.