Book Review: The Mindful Carnivore, Tovar Cerulli

Finally, here is my review of Tovar's new book, 'The Mindful Carnivore: A Vegetarian's Hunt for Sustenance'. I'm sure you've noticed that I liked the book or I wouldn't have preceded this post with an interview and a Photo Contest to win a copy. The premise of the book is enough to grab your attention without much additional explanation.


Starting the book I thought it was going to be a summation of Tovar's experiences but it is much more. He walks you through his whole thought process as well as the history of the vegetarian and vegan movements and it's various groundings in religion and other aspects of life. It's really a study of man's relationship with food in general, and the environment. One of my favorite parts is where Tovar delves into the fact that vegan and vegetarian diets are not without their own cost to animal life and the ecosystem altogether. For some reason I hadn't really thought of all the deer and groundhogs shot to protect fields of vegetables that ultimately end up on the vegetarians' plate or the large areas of land that are cleared to increase commercial farming operations. This book presents a unique set of questions that will make you really think hard about your food choices no matter what they are, how they effect you and the world around you. I found myself questioning a lot of my food choices as well as agreeing with a good portion of the book that covers the history and beliefs behind vegetarianism. Tovar does an amazing job of fairly presenting the information on both sides of the table allowing you to understand his choices and letting you form your own opinions.


I would also like to thank Tovar for addressing the sad stereotype that is pinned to all hunters by a seemingly large portion or very vocal minority of non hunters.  Unfortunately those stereotypes do exist for a reason but Tovar does a great job of using examples of not only himself but his Uncle Mark who truly demonstrate what real hunters are and how I hope more people see us one day. I honestly think this book should be required reading for anyone looking to become a vegetarian or a hunter. It really helps facilitate a lot of self searching and really opens your eyes to what all goes into our relationship with what we eat.


In summary this book not only show's you Tovar's journey but is the only book I've found to date that lays it all out fairly without being an attack on any lifestyle. It's an interesting read and you will learn a lot about yourself and the history of man's relationship with what we eat. If you'd like to get a copy check out this Tovar's website HERE for the various retailers. The book is currently offered in hardcover and most any eBook format. If you pick up a copy be sure to let me know what you think of it!