Okay, let's be clear: this is a dense, academic work from the early 1900s. You won't find a traditional plot with characters. Instead, the 'story' is the incredible, globe-trotting adventure of the plants that built civilization.

The Story

Reinhardt methodically tracks specific crops. He starts with their wild origins, follows the paths of human migration and trade that spread them, and shows how they became central to cultures, religions, and survival. One chapter might follow the potato from the Andes to Irish farms, changing a nation's fate. Another traces how sugar cane fueled brutal colonial systems. The narrative is the journey of the plant itself, and how it pulls human history along in its roots.

Why You Should Read It

It makes you see the world differently. After reading a section on grains, your morning toast feels like a direct link to ancient Mesopotamia. You realize that the spice rack is a map of old exploration routes. It’s humbling and fascinating to see how our basic need for food has been the silent engine for so much of history's drama, conflict, and connection.

Final Verdict

This is for the deeply curious reader who loves narrative nonfiction like Salt or Cod. It’s perfect for history buffs who want a fresh, 'bottom-up' perspective, gardeners interested in plant heritage, or anyone who enjoys those 'aha!' moments that connect everyday life to the grand sweep of time. Be prepared for its academic style—it’s a slow, rewarding sip, not a quick gulp.