Reaktion Books And The Unexpected Joys Of Exploratory Search

When was the last time you got lost in a reference book? While many researchers today are drawn to the speed and precision of a Google search, database search, or AI query, some still enjoy the experience of exploring a comprehensive encyclopedia or fact book to uncover bits of information that invigorate or even transform their research journey.

Credo Reference recently added over a dozen titles from Reaktion Books, which is celebrating its 40th year as an independent publisher, and whose books are custom built for exploratory search. Each title offers a thorough history of its topic and includes little nuggets throughout that would often get lost in the fringes of most traditional search queries. We’ve included some of our favorites below.

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Biscuits and Cookies

Perhaps you’ve had fortune cookies and Fig Newtons, but what about nankhatai, from India? Have you ever eaten Finnish avioliittopikkuleipä? Check off every cookie you’ve tried on this Biscuit Bucket List and go on a sugary scavenger hunt to sample the rest.

Jam, Jelly, and Marmalade

Jam has an unexpectedly radical history! Workers in jam factories in the early 20th century were predominantly women. In 1911, about 15,000 of those women successfully went on strike in London for expanded workers’ rights.

Tomato

Tomato soup is great with grilled cheese but…in a cake? Tomato soup spice cake arose out of the Great Depression and has been winning over skeptics since then. Find the recipe, along with other tomato dishes, here.

Oyster

Love oysters? When was the last time you attended an oyster festival? Find oyster festivals across the country and around the globe with this guide.

Sweets

Sweets and Candy explores the many ways that sweet treats have become a part of celebrations across history and geography—including some deliciously eerie festivities. Beautifully decorated sugar skulls mark the Day of the Dead in Mexico, while Italians celebrate a similar holiday with “ossi dei morti” (bones of the dead) almond cookies.

Saffron

Saffron is the world’s most expensive spice. Before you buy, check out the saffron primer in Saffron: A Global History. Learn to tell the difference between different kinds of saffron, how to test its quality, and even how to grow your own Crocus sativus, the saffron crocus.

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Reaktion Books and the Unexpected Joys of Exploratory Search