Books on Chocolate
Non-Fiction for Adults
Sweet Dreams: The Story of Green & Black's – Craig Sams & Josephine Fairley
The story of Green and Black's - 'Both inspiring and entertaining, Sweet Dreams shows what is possible when you decide to tear up the rule book and follow your instincts (and your tastebuds...!)
Chocolate – Ruth Lopez
This book was created to complement an exhibition at The Field Museum. It is a pictorial survey of chocolate’s history with information not included in the exhibition.
All About Chocolate – Carole Bloom
An abundance of information about chocolate, our favorite subject.
The Book of Chocolate – edited by Nathalie Bailleux
The photographs alone make this book delicious.
The Chocolate Tree: A Natural History of Cacao – Allen M. Young
Terrific source of information about the botany and cultivation of cacao.
The New Taste of Chocolate: A Cultural and Natural History of Cacao with Recipes – Maricel Presilla
Gorgeous photographs and text concentrating on Central and South America.
The True History of Chocolate – Sophie D. Coe and Michael Coe
A recognized, in-depth history of chocolate.
The Art of Chocolate – Elaine González
Clear, simple instructions for working decoratively with chocolate. Techniques include making chocolate leaves, bows, and clay. Covers tools, tempering techniques, and has a range of recipes.
Fiction for Adults
The Chocolate Lovers’ Club – Carole Matthews
Forget diamonds, chocolate is a girl’s best friend. There is just one thing Lucy Lombard can’t live without, and that’s chocolate -- rich, creamy, sweet, delicious chocolate. Sharing her passion with her three best friends and fellow addicts, they form a select group known as the Chocolate Lovers’ Club. Whenever there’s a crisis, they meet in their sanctuary. The Chocolate Lovers’ Club brings together four unforgettable women from totally different worlds united in their passion for chocolate.
Chocolat – Joanne Harris
A woman uses chocolate to overcome prejudice in a small French village.
Like Water for Chocolate: A Novel in Monthly Installments, with Recipes, Romances, and Home Remedies – Laura Esquivel
A novel exploring the powerful effects of love and food that includes wonderful recipes.
For Kids and Families
Chocolate: Riches from the Rainforest – Robert Burleigh
This is similar to “Chocolate” by Ruth Lopez in that it covers The Field Museum’s exhibition, but is aimed towards middle and older children. Packed with fun facts and lavish color photos.
The Cocoa Commotion: A Carmen Sandiego Mystery – Melissa Peterson
A great read for middle to older children. Lots of information about chocolate, cacao, and geography woven into the mystery plot.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – Roald Dahl
Classic tale for middle and older readers about a boy's adventures in Willy Wonka's magical chocolate factory. Popular, seemingly, forever.
How Monkeys Make Chocolate – Adrian Forsyth
Gets the information across to middle to older readers. In a unique, engaging way.
Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry: The Story of Your Favourite Flavours – Bonnie Busenberg
Great sections on each flavor as well as how humans taste food and the chemistry behind it. For middle to older readers.
Cocoa Ice – Diana Appelbaum
A story about two girls who live in different parts of the world during the era of schooner trade. Works well for a range of ages and especially for reading aloud.
Smart About Chocolate: A Sweet History – Sandra Markle
Part of the unique, kid-friendly Smart About series. Kids will learn about the history and personality that brought chocolate to where it is today.
From Cocoa Bean to Chocolate – Robin Nelson
Covers the entire chocolate making process from planting a cocoa tree to eating a delicious piece of candy.
