Alphin, Elaine Marie. Toasters. Carolrhoda, 1998. ISBN 1-57505-243-1. $22.60 48 pp.” 4-6 NF Reviewed by Mary Warner Toasters is a must read for everyone who likes toast. This fascinating book traces the history of toasting bread from ancient times to modern day. Alphin explains that drying bread out keeps it from going moldy too quickly.” Toasting is a way to dry the bread and still have it taste good. Toasters covers all methods of toasting bread, from a fork held over a fire to a modern toaster oven. The invention of the pop-up toaster is covered with delightful detail. The author has made a common, ordinary subject simply fascinating. Toasting bread has become an integral part of our everyday life. This book covers every aspect of toast-making, including the emotional and social aspects of eating toast. The physics of toasting and the mechanics of toasters are covered with enough technical information to inform but not confuse the reader. Teachers and parents will appreciate the many resources for further study that are included in the text. There are little interesting points and photos in the side margins of each page. Words typed in bold are listed in a glossary in the back of the book. There is also an index. Toasters is highly recommended to readers of any age who are interested in the world around them.
