Lebanese blogger Rami Zurayck points our attention to Green Gold, a book about olive oil by Sabina Mahfoud. The book apparently has been well-received and Zurayck gives this extract from a complimentary review:

“It is a swift introduction to Lebanon geared towards a readership of outsiders and a counterweight to the country’s international media profile as a war-torn basket-case. It is a story about farmers and rural food producers. It’s a journalistic account of sustainable development and a personal narrative of discovery and deep affection.

“It is a cookbook, a beauty guide and a how-to reference on the process of harvesting olives from start to finish. It is a source book for those interested in organic products, replete with maps and lists of olive oil producers, distributors and non-governmental organisations that serve their interests in Lebanon. It is a quick flip or a long slog, depending on your own interests.”

According Zurayck, it is “essential reading.” Go, check it out.