16 June 2009 The Basics of Beer

I wrote this book because I think that beer is under-appreciated and Id like to see more people get in on the fun, says Lynn Hoffman 65, author of the new guide, The Short Course in Beer.

Hoffman cheekily explores one of the worlds oldest and most popular beverages in connection to the Crusades, the Hundred Years War, and modern soccer riots, while also discussing the effects of alcohol on the body and brain.

Written with wit and charm, Hoffmans guide provides a worldly perspective on how beer is made, how to serve and taste it, where to find the best beer, and what foods to serve with it. The guide is designed to turn anyone into an expert on beer, teaching how to recognize the many flavors, understand the differences and how to distinguish a good beer, as well as how to speak knowledgeably about beer.

Hoffmans previous works include The New Short Course in Wine, The Bachelors Cat, and bang Bang. He graduated from Hobart with a B.A. in anthropology. He previously taught at the Wine School of Philadelphia and is a former restaurant critic for Philadelphia Weekly. Hoffman founded the culinary arts program at Drexel University, and now lives in Philadelphia.

The Short Course in Beer is now available for purchase at the College Store.