Buzz: The Science and Lore of Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine are by far the most widely consumed mind-altering drugs in the world today. So shouldn't we know a little more about the substances which give us that much needed shot in the arm, or that take the edge off a rough day? In this endlessly entertaining and informative collection of coffee and booze trivia, history and anecdotes, award-winning scientist Stephen Braun explores such topics as the causes and cures of hangovers, the role of caffeine in creativity, how these substances find their way into our bloodstream, heart, and brain -- and why so many people can't get through the day without one or both.Splashes of cultural lore and surprising facts (did you know that Bach composed a coffee cantata?) as well as quips from well-known people and their little-known addictions (David Letterman said, "If it weren't for the coffee, I'd have no identifiable personality whatsoever".) top off this colorful compendium. Whether you take it black, neat, with a twist or a splash of milk, you'll enjoy the buzz you'll get from this eye-opening, amusing look at two substances that are immediately familiar, virtually irresistible, and deeply mysterious.