This book reminds me of another favorite of mine, Last Call by Daniel Okrent. That one's about Prohibition. Both books share the not-too-surprising theme that drinking is as much a part of human history as war and sex. Apparently drinking is so intertwined with our primal urges that, as A History of the World in 6 Glasses recounts, any fluctuation in the commerce of beverages has the potential to literally caused revolutions.

The 6 glasses from the title are beer, wine, spirits et al, tea, coffee and Coca-Cola. It would seem that civilization, at any point in its history, either needs a pick-me-up or is looking to take the edge off.

A very interesting book on the most common drinks in the world and how they helped to shape culture, history, politics and economies. Well written but not long winded.