AP Human Geography Summer Reading Assignment 2016 Book: The Omnivore’s Dilemma: The Secrets Behind What You Eat, (Young Readers Edition) Michael Pollan Introduction: Human geography is a very interdisciplinary subject that proves extremely hard to succinctly define. Over the years we have settled on the following limited, but still useful, general definition: human geography is the study of the organization of space and the distribution of and interactions between phenomena across that space. In other words, we study where stuff is and the way humans interact with that stuff. Instead of assigning a general geography text/reader that attempts to provide you with an overview of the major themes within geography, I have decided to assign a text that highlights one specific geographic theme that is not only currently relevant but also touches everyone (including you) in all regions of the world no matter the age or socio­economic background. ​
The Omnivore’s Dilemma​
is about agriculture (food) and our complicated relationship with it in today’s highly globalized and interconnected society. The text is written by a journalist with a particular agenda and as a result the author’s biased perspective is certainly strong throughout the narrative. It is not my intention to persuade you to feel the same way the author does about our food supply chain, American eating habits, or even agricultural production in general. The purpose of this assignment is to introduce you to some of the most pertinent and compelling issues not only within agricultural geography today but also within the larger global issue of ecological sustainability. Assignment: Your assignment is simple, read the book and try to enjoy it. While no formal book report or study questions are being assigned, I would like for you to pick a favorite food item or meal and try to trace it back through the food supply chain. The most effective way of doing this is to simply find out what ingredients are in the food and then research where they likely came from on the internet. If you cannot find specific information on food items or ingredients it is okay to generalize and assume where particular things most likely originated. For instance if I am researching a fruit cup from Chick­Fil­A and find information that most of the grapes used in meals at fast food restaurants come from Chile but I cannot find any specific information on Chick­Fil­A grapes it is okay for me to assume they came from Chile. No written work is necessary but you will need to be prepared to discuss the text in general and your research specifically in small groups on the first day of class (not the freshmen orientation day).