The Future of Bananas

'The Future of Bananas is not only an engaging account of the history and science of this ubiquitous fruit but it is clear and insightful explanation of genetic modification that should be read by everyone who approves or opposes this science.' Mark Kurlansky, New York Times bestselling author of Salt: A World History 'James Dale is both the Einstein and the Indiana Jones of bananas. The tale of his global quest to preserve the yellow fruit from a deadly pandemic is gripping and sure-footed, despite the supposed slipperiness of its subject. It is also a parable about how science can help solve real-world problems—when it is allowed to.' Tom Standage, New York Times bestselling author of An Edible History of Humanity 'James Dale is one of the key players in the race to save the banana from commercial extinction. His brilliant account of his work is essential reading for anyone interested in ecosystems, biology, genetics, or who just loves bananas and wants to see them survive.' Dan Koeppel, author of Banana: The Fate of the Fruit That Changed the World ‘James Dale's The Future of Bananas makes a compelling case for optimism despite warnings of an impending "bananapocalypse." Dale brings decades of scientific expertise to the banana's complicated history of exploitation and disease, showing how the industry has adapted before and can again. He explores multiple paths forward, focusing on new technologies while remaining open to diverse solutions rather than privileging any single fix. The challenges are real, but so are the solutions.’ John T. Lang, Associate Professor of Sociology at Occidental College and author of What's So Controversial About Genetically Modified Food? 'This is a fascinating exploration about not just the humble banana, but a fruit whose history encompasses colonialism, war, globalisation, drug trafficking, changing consumer tastes and scientific breakthroughs. Dale also makes an eloquent case for the importance of embracing GM technologies -- if we want to carry on eating the world's favourite fruit.' Harry Wallop, award-winning consumer journalist and author of Consumed: How We Buy Class in Modern Britain 'The Future of Bananas is a gripping, insider account of the race to save world’s favorite fruit from all but certain extinction. If you’ve ever eaten a banana, you should read this book.' George Zaidan, author of Ingredients: The Strange Chemistry of Plants, Poisons and Processed Foods 'Written in engaging prose by a leading biotechnologist, The Future of Bananas provides an accessible entry into the complex world of banana biodiversity, genetics, and the challenges of overcoming plant disease in a dynamic, interconnected world shaped not only by biotech, but also small-scale farmers, business corporations, governments, and microbes.' John Soluri, author of Banana Cultures: Agriculture, Consumption, and Environmental Change in Honduras and the United States