Coffee is more than just a drink; it is a culture, an experience, a passion that links millions of people worldwide. For those who wish to explore this fascinating world and deepen their knowledge about coffee, we have selected three must-have manuals that will delight any passionate reader. From the secrets of coffee cultivation to the arts of tasting and preparation, these books are a comprehensive and compelling guide to the world of coffee.

COFFEE SAPIENS (ITALIAN)

The first manual we would like to present to you is “Coffee Sapiens“, written in Italian. This volume approaches the world of coffee from a very particular angle, dividing it into four main thematic paths. Coffee is examined as an unprocessed product, i.e., the plant itself, then as a man-made product, moving from beans to ground coffee. Next, the book focuses on the gastronomic preparation of coffee, transforming it from a raw product into a delicious beverage. Finally, ‘Coffee Sapiens’ explores coffee as a gastronomic experience, focusing on the activities of coffee bars. To delve deeper into each thematic path, the book has been divided into 14 individual chapters, providing a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the world of coffee.

REAL FRESH COFFEE

“Real Fresh Coffee” is a book that promises to take us on an exciting journey through the global coffee scene. Written in English by authors Jeremy Torz and Steven Macatonia, the book follows the journey of the humble coffee bean, from its cultivation to the cup that is served in a coffee shop. The authors, who have been passionate about good coffee since 2001, share their vast experience and secrets of the coffee trade with readers. This manual is an indispensable guide for anyone who wants to learn how to select, roast, grind and prepare fresh coffee safely. You will discover how to turn coffee into a true art, thanks to the tips and knowledge shared by the authors.

SOMMELIER COFFEE (ITALIAN)

The third book we present is “Caffè Sommelier”, edited by Luigi Odello, the president of Centro Studi Assaggiatori and International Institute of Coffee Tasters. This manual, written in Italian and illustrated with the extraordinary photographs of Fabio Petroni, is a work entirely dedicated to coffee in all its facets. The book will take you on a journey of discovery of this extraordinary beverage that accompanies millions of people every day. From the origins of coffee cultivation to the secrets of harvesting and roasting beans, this handbook offers a comprehensive analysis of everything to do with coffee. You will learn about the different coffee varieties, discover their unique flavours and aromas, and immerse yourself in the many facets of this beverage. Furthermore, in the concluding part of the book, chef Giovanni Ruggieri presents some original recipes that demonstrate how coffee can also play a leading role in the kitchen.

Some novels about coffee (and more)

Besides these manuals, the world of literature also offers a number of fascinating novels around coffee. These books not only tell engaging stories but also celebrate coffee culture in unique and intriguing ways. If you would like to explore coffee through fiction, here are some recommended reads:

“The Cup of Coffee” by Jostein Gaarder – A fascinating novel that combines philosophy and coffee, taking you on a journey through the history and philosophy of the drink.

“Coffee” by Alain Durel – A book that explores coffee as a source of inspiration, linking stories of coffee lovers with stories of everyday life.

“Bitter Coffee” by Pascal Bruckner – A novel that mixes coffee, history, and philosophy, exploring the cultural significance of coffee through the ages.

These novels offer a different perspective on coffee, allowing you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and essence of this extraordinary beverage through the magic of storytelling.

Whether you want to explore the technical aspects of coffee production or discover its history and culture through fiction, there are options for every type of coffee enthusiast. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating and flavored world of coffee through these engaging readings.