The Prophets of Smoked Meat
The title's more than a little pompous — anyone who thinks the Lone Star State is the be-all, end-all of BBQ has obviously never been to Kansas City, Memphis, or a whole swath of the Southeast — but that doesn't mean The Prophets of Smoked Meat: A Journey Through Texas Barbecue ($20) isn't worth reading. Penned by Daniel "BBQ Snob" Vaughn, this nearly 400-page edition is the first in the Anthony Bourdain Books line, and takes readers on a culinary tour of the state, examining different meats, woods, markets, and restaurants, while offering up some recipes at the same time. Consider it inspirational reading for the summer cookout season.