This book-beautifully photographed and engagingly written-introduces hardworking, resourceful men and women who represent an artisanal craft that has roots in Europe but has been a Wisconsin tradition since the 1850s. Wisconsin produces more than six hund
James Norton worked for several years as the Middle East editor for The Christian Science Monitor. Subsequently, he worked for the comedian (now US Senator) Al Franken and as a pop food reviewer for CHOW.com. He's currently the editor of The Heavy Table, an online magazine documenting food and drink in the Upper Midwest.
Norton's books include volumes on politics ("Saving General Washington"), food ("Lake Superior Flavors") and one collection of short fiction, "The Wendigo's Credit Card."
He lives in Minneapolis with his wife (photographer Becca Dilley), his son, and three semi-competent cats.
An enjoyable diversion, with lots of interviews with master cheesemakers from all over the state talking about how and why they got into the business and how they do their craft. I had hopes that one of the cheese factories would be close enough to visit but found none in Jefferson County in the book. However, the interviews were interesting and educational. I sense a field trip in the offing.