Mish-Mash Dictionary of Marmite

Naughty Me!

2011-11-29T20:18:00.003Z

The massive Marmite mess on the M-1 Motorway (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-south-yorkshire-15933599) made me spring into action. Joined the hundreds prompted to do the same, with some very funny puns etc and posted my thoughts on several newspaper 'comment' sections. And of course gave the book a plug, referring readers to Amazon and The Book Depository. To which The Guardian (despite me thanking it for the chance to do a bit of PR) reacted violently! They not only deleted the message they 'banned' me from the comment site, telling me: Comment privileges for this account have been disabled.

Meanwhile a rather dubious 'joke' about two nuns and a cucumber, or was it a piece of soap (not sure where the Marmite came in) was allowed to stay! I tell you, how can so many have so much fun over one mighty product......

THE BOOK

2011-11-27T22:00:00.002Z

Assuming you're here because you have a passion, a liking, or at least a passing interest, in MARMITE. This site is all about the most complete book ever compiled about the iconic British savoury spread, that has a vast following around the world. It's THE MISH-MASH DICTIONARY OF MARMITE: an anecdotal A-Z of Tar-in-a-Jar. All manner of details and information - as in: where to buy it, who wrote it, did the illustrations; links to the media attention it has attracted, on both sides of the Atlantic - are all on the site. Also, by just putting 'Marmite Maggie' into any search engine, all manner of on-line references will be found. Mish-Mash is designed to be - like the black-magic stuff itself - dipped into. If you buy the book (£10 or $15) and enjoy it, I'd be enormously grateful if you would spread the word, write a review......and buy another copy as a gift!

Still a Home Town Gal!

2011-06-03T13:57:00.001+01:00

The local paper, in my home town of Cleckheaton, has done me proud. Again! They made contact over the Danish fracas and I happily responded. The result: http://www.spenboroughguardian.co.uk/news/local/lay_off_my_mate_marmite_1_3443746

SO MUCH FUN!

2011-05-31T14:56:00.000+01:00

Those Brits - they'll bet on anything! Paddy Powers - the leading high-stree bookies - has opened a book on which other countries will ban Marmite! Italy is favourite at 4-1 followed by
Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Britain is 66-1. Of course, the only winner here will be PP...

WELCOME!

2011-05-28T20:19:00.000+01:00

Enjoy exploring the site, and finding out all about the most complete book ever compiled about the Mighty-M...

BUY IT!

2011-05-28T20:16:00.000+01:00

Interested enough to buy it? Hope so. Available from all the usual online sellers. Worth knowing that The Book Depository has free shipping worldwide. http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Mish-mash-Dictionary-Marmite-Maggie-Hall/9780956368607 To get from Amazon: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mish-mash-Dictionary-Marmite-Tar-jar/dp/0956368603/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1306587094&sr=1-1

Wonderful War Being Waged!

2011-05-27T15:33:00.001+01:00

It's been all go! A copy of the book should have been delivered today (May 27) to the bureaucrats in Copenhagen, that sparked the fun-and-games. Eager to see if I get a response. Also alerted the Danish media. Again, we'll see if any interest is generated. But if they're like 'Fleet Street' their reaction will be a very sniffy 'so what?' Also told Liz Lynne, MEP for the West Midlands - who of course represents the home of the Mighty-M - what action I've taken. But have no great expectations about stirring the marmeet pot. It's a long weekend (even in Denmark, I think - but need to check) and the last thing these people want to come thumping down on their desks is a tome about Marmite! But I bet some 'suit' in Copenhagen grabs it and sneeks it home - to entertain his family and friends this sunny weekend!

ON ITS WAY TO DENMARK!

2011-05-25T18:42:00.000+01:00

So, have done it! Just mailed a copy of Mish-Mash to the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration. Under no illusion it will change minds - but they'll get an entertaining read, as they discover that Marmite is not 'fortified'. Well just one of the vitamins (B-12) is added. The other four Vitamin Bs are found naturally in yeast-extract, ie the waste sludge from the brewing industry. Which begs the question: why, as a great brewing nation, has Denmark not produced its own version of the Mighty-M?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Mish-mash-Dictionary-Marmite-Tar-jar/dp/0956368603/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1306342252&sr=1-1

CARE PACKAGES TO DENMARK!

2011-05-25T11:56:00.000+01:00

Boycott their bacon! Back away from their sugary pastries! Ban their beer! Send crates of the Mighty-M to your 'starving' pals in Denmark! The Danish Government has deemed Marmite ILLEGAL. I should make haste to Copenhagen and hurl copies of Mish-Mash at their silly heads.... but I should (in fact now I've thought about it I will) send one. Meanwhile catch-up on what I'm banging on about:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/foodanddrink/foodanddrinknews/8533896/Marmite-made-illegal-in-Denmark.html I

THE BOOK!

2010-12-08T15:10:00.001Z

Comments from a Number 1 Fan

2010-12-02T20:39:00.002Z

Fellow-Brit Corrine Bayraktaroglu is a numero uno fan. An artist of amazing talent and diversity she has built a shrine to Marmite (yes, she loves it!) which now hangs in the dining-room of her home in Ohio. She recently left comments on the site.... which I'm drawing attention to because a year after getting the book she reveals she still dips into it!

A TOP TEN PICK!

2010-11-26T22:01:00.002Z

One of the world's top food-bloggers, Elaine Lemm, has given Mish-Mash a rave review!

"Any Marmite lover will adore this book.... A great book, I love that it is on my shelf, and like the jar of Marmite, what fun to dip into from time to time...." she writes on About.com (the global blog site operated by the New York Times)

The great praise comes in Elaine's top ten pick of the Best British Cookbooks of 2010. Now, Mish-Mash is not really a cook-book - but, on this occasion, I'm more than happy to have it included in that hugely competitive category! She also says there is no entry for 'Z' - which there is. But not going to worry about that either!

To see the full piece, and the other books earmarked by Elaine go to:
http://britishfood.about.com/od/christmasgiftguide/ig/Cookbooks-2010/Mish-Mash-Dictionary-of-Marmite.htm

BTW: this is the third mention Elaine has given Mish-Mash. See the first two below. I think she likes it!

MIGHTY-M MANIA!

2010-11-24T12:28:00.002Z

The massive theft of Marmite and Marmite items just shows the mania that is raging over the mighty-M! But stocks of the book are not effected. Because Mish-Mash is not a Unilever sanctioned product (long story) it was not among the stolen! Just can't believe how I was ahead of the black-magic-spread game and now, hopefully, catching the Marmite wave....

SWEET WORDS FROM SUITE 101 WRITER

2010-10-25T15:49:00.007+01:00

If you're wondering: is this book for me?.... read the latest review. It's by British writer Elaine Findlay, who is a prominent contributor to the esteemed international Suite 101 site. When you read it, you will realise why I am more than delighted. Elaine really got it! As I am sure you will. Remember: if you don't get it (the book that is) you won't get it, either! To read the review go to:
http://www.suite101.com/content/great-fun-christmas-gift-the-mish-mash-dictionary-of-marmite-a298717?sms_ss=google&at_xt=4cbe4782a6e8f055,0
And if you want to discover more about the book and me, Elaine has done a follow-up. Go to: http://www.suite101.com/content/maggie-hall-talks-about-her-mish-mash-dictionary-of-marmite-a300128

Tasty Words from Top Food Blogger

2010-10-25T15:44:00.001+01:00

Elaine Lemm is a top food blogger..... she is a major contributor to About.com (which is part of the New York Times). Her speciality is British and Irish food....and her writings can be found at: Britishfood.about.com Elaine has discovered Mish-Mash and happily worked it into two articles about the constant battle between the mighty-Marmite and venerable-Vegemite....

http://britishfood.about.com/b/2010/05/11/marmite-vs-vegemite-the-taste-test.htm

http://britishfood.about.com/od/diningdrinkingtradition/a/marmitevvegemite.htm

BEST-SELLER NEWS!

2010-10-15T02:37:00.002+01:00

I'm delighted to report that Mish-Mash has achieved several high best-seller rankings on Amazon-UK. It's currently listed as:

#5 in Books > Languages > By Language > Other European Languages > Celtic Languages > Dictionaries
#9 in Books > Food & Drink > Reference & Gastronomy > Encyclopaedias & Dictionaries
#11 in Books > Food & Drink > National & International Cookery > British

Now I don't frankly understand the various 'categories' - but what the heck, the stats look great! And, as we authors who break out into a joyous sweat over every sale know, the way in which these sales are computed is a delicate, sensitive process. The rankings can change by the hour! But have to point out that if sales via The Book Depository were added to Amazon's, the rankings would be higher. As book-lovers, everywhere, are discovering, the BD is a terrific on-line book selling company - thanks to its policy of world-wide free delivery!

WHAT OTHERS THINK.....

2010-10-01T18:05:00.002+01:00

Here are extracts from reviews, posted on book-selling sites, blogs etc...
* The dictionary is full of amazing facts, tidbits, folklore

* This is a fun book assuming you have any interest in Marmite... Hall is a good writer and the alphabetized 'mish-mash' works better than I would have imagined....

* The sun may have dimmed a bit on the once mighty British Empire, but its legacy lives on in weird and wonderful ways. One of the most widespread is the iconic spread of gooey black concentrated yeast extract known as "Marmite."..... a delightfully funny book about this little wonder..... filled with wonderful historical stories and bizarre lore, it is a great read....

* I purchased it for a friend spending Christmas with us....he is from Australia...and knows how I do not appreciate his local spread, Vegemite....so we had a good laugh with this fun book

* Now I know what I would do with Marmite: use it for fish bait and to murder garden slugs. Maggie Hall's book consistently rewards the reader with tasty tidbits. I can't wait for the movie version!

* ... full of fascinating and fun facts. It's a surprising blend of product info, history, recipes, cartoons and reasons for brand loyalty or loathing. What a grand tour of the British psyche and sense of humor...

* ... even for those (like me) who can't stomach the stuff, this book is a treat.... delightfully written and cleverly illustrated...

* ...to say it is crammed with information would be an understatement! There is just so much in here, from the factual to the farcical ... you can pick this book up and start anywhere from A to Z to find out something you didn't know... I have a new respect for that jar in my kitchen cupboard!

* ... like it or lump it, my lot will be getting a copy of this gem of a book in their stockings this yuletide...

* It's the perfect gift for Christmas, but it is also an ideal book for dipping into, at any time... buyers, or recipients, will keep it beside their bed, or in the bathroom, maybe for ever...

Great Facebook "Plug"

2010-09-30T17:50:00.003+01:00

Delighted to report got a great "plug" on the official Marmite Facebook site. I have to be super-extra careful about posting anything that mentions the book..... hey, that's OK, the site is managed by Unilever (who declined to help me in compiling it). So I've got a kick out of the posting by Londoner Susanna Chenery who reported: Just got Maggie Hall's Book Mish-Mash and I love it! Thanks, Susanna.....

Fun Review

2010-09-22T22:45:00.001+01:00

Bit late in posting this fun review.... it was done by blogger SmittenByBritain... aka Melissa, an American in love with all things British. She concludes her piece by saying: One thing’s for sure, after reading The Mish-Mash Dictionary of Marmite, there’s no denying this is one amazing condiment. For sure, there is no denying that! To read it in its entirety go to: http://www.smittenbybritain.com/2010/06/the-mish-mash-dictionary-of-marmite.html

A LITERARY HONOUR

2010-07-16T13:00:00.003+01:00

Had a great experience this summer because of Mish-Mash. I was invited to talk at a Literary Luncheon. It was staged in Gomersal - at the stupendous Gomersal Park Hotel - right in the heart of the lesser-known Bronte country, in Yorkshire. The hotel, set in beautiful country-side grounds, is just a 10 minute drive from my home-town of Cleckheaton. The event was billed as my journey from Cleck to Capitol HIll - and how I came to delve into into the tasty/disgusting world of the mighty-M. There were 60 or so guests.... some of whom I didn't know! As I told them, the book and I were extremely flattered to be put into the 'literary' category.

A READER'S THOUGHTS....

2010-06-03T12:50:00.001+01:00

For those of you wondering, 'why should I buy a copy?' of The Mish-Mash Dictionary of Marmite, this is what one happy reader posted on the book's Face-Book site....."Interesting , amusing, enlightening, Delighted to have a copy...." Hooray! Exactly what I was aiming for.

NUMERO UNO!!

2010-05-03T17:38:00.005+01:00

Mish-Mash is number one in 'dictionaries' on Amazon UK. Hard to believe that it's a better seller than the Consise Oxford, Webster's and all that lot!

But as I said before (see previous posting) these ratings are fickle. It could be toppled within the hour. But for the moment Mish-Mash and MARMITE rule the dictionary world! A huge thanks to those of you who have sent it soaring.

NPR - AGAIN!

2010-04-29T16:50:00.007+01:00

The book has been acknowledged, yet again, by NPR (that's America's National Public Radio - equivalent to BBC Radio-4). This time it got a mention in an essay - 'In Defense of Marmite' - penned by the highly-talented food writer Michele Kayal. It's a delightfully written piece, that will warm the cockles of all Marmite lovers' hearts. Mish-Mash comes into play right at the end, in the recipe section, when Michele talks about Marmite's umami-factor. As an example of its high-rating when it comes to the fifth-taste, she tells how to prepare the classic Japanese dish Chazuke - with a Brit-twist.

photo by Michele Kayal for NPR

To read what Michele has described as her 'ode' to the black-magic, go to: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126307676 and to discover Michele's lively and entertaining take on food: http://hyphenatedchef.com/ What did NPR do earlier? See below and also in 2009 archive.

AUTHOR & SUBJECT.....

2010-04-29T01:58:00.004+01:00

This is the photo NPR took for their website 'broadcast' of the programme they did on the book. They came, to my home on Capitol Hill, for a mighty-M breakfast: apart from toast, bagels, crackers & you-know-what, there were marinated M-sausages; egg-salad impregnated with the stuff; Marm-A-Lite (M and marmalade); even a cake made with Marm-A-Lite and iced with a mix of Cheddar cheese, the black-magic and butter. Much more of a brunch than a breakfast! To 'hear' the broadcast, go to: http://m.npr.org/news/front/121135861?page=0

BEST-SELLER SUCCESS!

2010-04-22T15:33:00.000+01:00

How about this for success! The book is now listed, by Amazon UK, on three of its 'best-seller' lists. It's listed fourth in dictionaries; fourth in food & drink encyclopaedias & dictionaries; 14th in books about British food. Of course, it is well known that these listings change by the hour. But at the moment Mish-Mash is riding high. As am I! If you want to see what all the hype is about go to: http://ww...w.amazon.co.uk/Mish-mash-Dictionary-Marmite-Tar-jar/dp/0956368603/ref=pd_ts_b_4?ie=UTF8&s=books

MORE ABOUT........

2010-04-21T13:14:00.002+01:00

......the book for all tastes! No matter where you stand on the big Marmite ‘love-hate’ debate, you will find something in THE MISH-MASH DICTIONARY OF MARMITE to your liking.

As the title indicates, it reveals a mish-mash of information - from serious to silly, with lots of tasty nuggets in between - about the iconic British spread. From its beginnings as yeast-waste from the brewing industry to its use today in the finest restaurants, this book reveals the grip Marmite has on palates - and minds.

The tales it tells amount to a social-history, covering over 100 years. It’s crammed with insights into: how it all began, old-time recipes, new culinary tips, its place in medicine, its role in education and wars, its uses apart from eating it, and much more. All of which add up to an amazing feat for a humble food product.

But above all it’s a fun-packed read about the zany world occupied by Marmite. The ‘lovers’ will love it. But they’ll also hate it! Because of all the ammunition the ‘loathers’ will find, within its pages, to hurl at them. Even those who have no interest in Marmite, know nothing about it, will find something to grab them - and be converted. Either one way or the other!

A quick glance through the ‘ingredients’ - partially listed on the back-cover - shows how the book exposes the wild side of Marmite. In an A-Z format, it reveals the amazing Marmite-link between scores of diverse subjects. No other book reveals the impact - often extraordinary and frequently laughable - of this kitchen cupboard staple on the world.

It is the perfect gift book, for all occasions. It's an easy and 'tasty' way out of the dilemma that goes: what shall I get them?

New FaceBook Mighty-M Site!

2010-04-18T15:31:00.002+01:00

There is a new way for FaceBook fans of Mish-Mash to express their love....go to: http://www.facebook.com/Marmite#!/pages/Mish-Mash-Dictionary-of-Marmite/108577815847730?ref=ts

Great take on the Book!

2010-04-14T19:04:00.000+01:00

Journalist Karan Moses Robinson has written a great review of the book. It has some very funny observations. All the more so, because she is not to the taste born. Read it at: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2871920/the_mishmash_dictionary_of_marmite.html?cat=47

The Sincerest Form of Flattery....

2010-03-29T18:29:00.000+01:00

So Uniliver, who wouldn't sanction the book, have 'nicked' the 'tar' reference!

In its latest promotion, for Marmite, it talks about 'Tarmite' - the product it threatens to market if the 'haters' win the Marmite general-election. The 'election' is Unilever's latest Marmite campaign. It's a take-off of the looming political battle, for Number 10, in Britain. Frankly, I think it's far too twee, contrived, over-the-top. Marmite can stand on its own. It doesn't need these constant promotions - it's the third this year - which are slanted towards the daft, reverse-thinking, etc. To see what I am going on about go to: http://www.marmitenewsnetwork.com/

KELLY'S AT IT AGAIN....

2010-03-25T00:16:00.003Z

That well known Washington Post Wag, John Kelly, is at it again! He ended a recent column with another attack on the mighty-M. It read......

BE AFRAID

My former colleague Elizabeth Terry made me aware of a disturbing development on the yeast extract front: The makers of Marmite, the disgusting English condiment, have come out with a new, super-concentrated version. Called Marmite XO -- for "extra old" -- it is aged four times as long as normal Marmite and is said to be four times as strong. The name and classy label allegedly call to mind a fine port wine, though I'm sure the taste calls to mind the Odor Eaters of a grave-digging dipsomaniac. If ever there was a time to slap a trade tariff on a foreign product, it's now.

But on the basis that no publicity is bad publicity, have to thank John. Just wish I'd been around, when it was published. Instead I was sunning myself and suffering Marmite withdrawal in Honduras (see previous posting). Pity, because we could have had another lively exchange, and could probably have slipped-in a 'plug' for the book. But battle will re-commence the next time I come back from Britain. I will bring back a jar of XO and challenge him to a taste-test. Though the only way I know I'll get so much as a smear past his Marmite-bad-talking lips is to weigh him down with a container load of XO. But I will try....so watch-out Washington Post Wag!

IT'S THE BOOK TO CONSULT....

2010-03-09T13:15:00.001Z

Delighted! The Daily Mail (a leading British national newspaper for our non-Brit friends) has a great feature on Marmite XO, the new extra strong Marmite. Writer David Leafe, good man, ordered the book before making contact. What a rare breed of journo is he! The book gets a decent mention....and it was clear he 'lifted' quite a bit of stuff from it and the sub, edititing his piece, 'nicked' the secondary title of the book for the headline. Withouth getting too big-headed about all this, feel this has sanctioned Mish-Mash as the publication to consult when information about Marmite is needed. And, husband Gary - the number one hater in the world of M - is also pretty made up.With his first whiff of Marmite, 30 years ago, he christened it: 'Tar-in-a-Jar'!

But apart from all that David has written one of those articles that will go into the annals of Marmite writings. He did some terrific research - even going (lucky chap) to the factory for a full briefing on the process. Made a very informative and fun read. Go to: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-1256512/What-Marmites-new-extra-strong-spread-like.html

A FUN STORY

2010-03-06T17:36:00.000Z

Should have posted this ages ago! It's a fun story in the Bucks Free Press - based on the book. http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/4767334.Bucks_named_Marmite_central/

AMAZON DEAL

2010-03-05T22:53:00.001Z

Amazon US is offering a package-deal on three Marmite items. Delighted to discover that the book is one of them. Twiglets is another - which, of course, anyone who reads the ingredients on packages, or has read the book cover-to-over, knows that contrary to popular believe Marmite is not used in the manufacture of Twiglets. The Marmitey taste comes from a generic yeast-extract. But who cares? They're one of the world's irresistible snacks! The third item is a Paddington Bear promotion - a jar of M in a suitcase and a tiny PB. The link between Marmite and one of the all-time favourite story book character is now so old hat I'm amazed there are any of these promotional items still left! The book has the back-story to the uneasy relationship between these two iconic British 'things'. See the Amazon deal at: http://www.amazon.com/Marmite-Paddington-Gift-Pack-7-05-Ounce/dp/B002MZFJ4S

WHY I HAVEN'T ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT....

2010-03-02T22:28:00.001Z

So hung up on enjoying myself on Utila I never made it clear why I have no opinion on the XO Marmite.....

Easy to work out, of course. The commerative jar (see two entries ago) was awarded after I left for Honduras....so it's going to be a while before I taste the new M-sensation. Not because I'm going to 'go native' on Utila (though would be easy to do) but because the XO is languishing in Yorkshire (didn't, couldn't expect Unilever to send it to DC). So I will not get my greedy, make that needy (see last entry), mitts on it until I pitch up again on my real native soil! Which could be quite some time. Though that wait could be shortened, if any family/friends from 'Jolly Olde' turn up this Spring....better get the invitations to visit out!

MISS IT SO MUCH!

2010-02-28T17:25:00.000Z

After spending a year with my head in a Marmite jar I decided I needed not only a break but a way of jump-starting my travel-writing 'career' again. So, just after New Year, husband Gary (he came up with 'Tar-in-a-Jar') and I headed off to Honduras. Well, more precisely, the little island of Utila. In a bid to keep our luggage down, the Marmite was left behind. Stupidly thought that because of the British influence on Utila - English is the first language - a dusty jar of the mighty-M might be found lurking on the odd bodega shelf. Wrong! And cannot believe how much I miss it. At first I wasn't bothered. Hey, I told myself, I've eaten enough Marmite lately to keep me going for a while. But every time I pick-up warm bagels from the bakery (which is just about every morning) I yearn to smother them in the stuff. As for eating bananas here - the country which gave the world that gem of a 'fruit' - I find it ridiculous that I left home without it! What, you've never tried lacing a mashed-up banana with Marmite? A favourite treat - only equalled by peanut-butter and M. But totally surpassed by mixing all three together and adding apple sauce. I think I need to get home.....

MARMARATI 'HONOUR'

2010-01-26T23:41:00.000Z

The book has pulled-off a major triumph! A new Marmite is scheduled to hit the market later this year. It's going to be extra-strong. It will sell under the name Marmite XO - which stands for Extra Old. In a bid to promote the newcomer Unilever (manufacturers of M) held a competition via its Facebook page. It invited Marmite fans to prove their passion by taking the challenge to be dubbed a Marmarati. Entries were then voted on. Only 200 - of the 694 entries - would make the cut. And Mish-Mash did it! A sweet victory that I am savouring because...well see the penultimate sentence.

My entry - among the hundreds of very stylized, complicated and fanciful offerings - was very simple. It was a photo of the front cover along with one paragraph that said: Anyone who spends nine months with their head in a Marmite jar to write a book about the black-magic deserves the honour of being declared numero uno Marmarati!

An e-mail told me that a 'hand-crafted, commemerative' jar of the 'prototype' new-taste Marmite is on its way to me. The package will also contain 'instructions' for the next step in the fight for the Marmarati crown. I'm sure Mish-Mash has gone as far as it's going in this particular arena....but, what an honour to get this far. Particularly as it was produced without the 'blessing' of Unilever. But will keep you posted.

The Sheffield Tel - Tells All, Twice!

2010-01-08T14:45:00.001Z

The good old Sheffield Telegraph (where I once nearly got a job but flunked the final interview because the editor didn't like the fact I hesitated when asked what book I was currently reading!) finally came through. Nice piece about the book - but primarily about Dave Jeffery, illustrator extraordinaire, whom is orginally from the great steel city. Read it here: http://www.sheffieldtelegraph.co.uk/arts/Spreading-love-and-hate.5961486.jp And then several days later its sister paper The Star happily got in on the act: http://www.thestar.co.uk/diary/Marmite-book-you39ll-either-love.5973445.jp

A Marmartous Festive Dish!

2009-12-23T22:13:00.003Z

Here is a festive dish with a twist! Caviar Pie, minus the caviar (or lump-fish as most of us use) with a good dollop of you know what to replace it. Sounds like it wouldn't work. But it does. As my good friends Karl and Carrol Kindel proved, when it was a star on the buffet table at their annual Egg-Nog gathering, on Capitol Hill, Washington DC. And the amazing thing was the number of guests who said: 'This is great what is in it exactly?' Then when told gasped: 'Oh, that awful British stuff! But this was so good!'

This is the recipe the Kindels used to provide that umami - or 'wow' - factor: mash six hard-boiled egg and half a yellow onion, finely chopped, into quarter of a pound of softened butter; press, about an inch thick, into the dish you want to serve the 'pie' in; refrigerate until hardened; put a layer of Marmite on top; then cover with yoghurt and sour cream mixed. Voila - dip in with a cracker or spoon onto a crudite.

THE LUCK OF THE IRISH!

2009-12-14T18:37:00.002Z

I hope the luck of the Irish transfers to sales of the book in Ireland. If it doesn't it will not be the fault of the award-winning NewsTalk radio station. One of its top hosts, Sean Moncreiff, did a 15 minute interview with me for his afternoon show, December 14th. We had a few laughs - hard not to when the subject if Marmite - especially when a listener revealed that his favourite way of eating it was on a dry Weetabix. Even to me that sounds pretty gross! All the fault of the Weetabix, of course....

NEW YORK, NEW YORK!

2009-12-09T17:41:00.003Z

Pete Myers is engrossed in the book - but then he's probably reading the entry about himself!

New Yorkers - and visitors to the Big Apple - can now get their hands on the book easily. Head to the Village: to Myers' of Keswick, the greatest pork-pie shop in the USA. Almost, the world - heck, make it the world! The Myers - Pete and daughter Jennifer - have made Mish-Mash an integeral part of their Christmas window display. To get your hands on a copy, plus some of the best Cumberland sausages this side of the Lake District, go to: 634 Hudson Street (between Horatio and Jane Streets).

And, How About This!

2009-12-08T20:46:00.003Z

The 'plugs' just keep getting better and better....how about this one? The New Yorker!! I know it's only online, but it is still the New Yorker.....and to be included in such illustrious company: http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2009/12/in-the-news-death-of-the-fat-novel-marmite-memories.html

BREKKERS WITH TOP U.S. RADIO PROGRAMME

2009-12-07T01:33:00.002Z

There have been many highlights associated with the debut of Mish-Mash. And the latest was when NPR (for Brit readers, that's National Public Radio: ie America's answer to Radio 4) came a calling. Guy Raz, anchor of the weekend edition of the award-winning news magazine All Things Considered, spotted John Kelly's piece in the Washington Post - and jumped right on the 'phone to invite himself for breakfast! He brought with him producer Travis Larchuck. No prizes for guessing what was served.

Guy, who studied at Cambridge and has served as NPR's London bureau chief, is no stranger to Marmite. In fact I would go as far as saying he loves it as much as I do. Travis on the other hand arrived at my home, on Capitol Hill, a total novice in all matters relating to Marmite. Including eating it. He left with an avowed hatred, that I fear he will never lose. To listen to the marmitey breakfast carry-on go to: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=121135861

Such Fun With The Washington Post

2009-12-04T21:20:00.001Z

What a 'war' John Kelly ignited with his column (see A Post About The Post). His weekly online 'chat' with readers - where usually things of DC importance and world renown are aired and discussed - was virtually 100% Marmite. Better make that yeast-extract, as quite a few Vegemite fans got involved in the affray. And, you know what, I'm going to take that back, about the forum not about the 'important' and 'renowned' - Marmite is both of those! If you want to know what you missed go to: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2009/11/25/DI2009112502982.html

A Signature Marmite Moment

2009-12-03T22:14:00.004Z

Having a coffee outside Marvelous Market (7th Street, SE, Washington DC - where the book is on sale) I saw a couple approaching. They paused close to the table I was at with my blog-meister and 'agent-supremo' Stephanie Cavanaugh - and I just knew. 'Marmite?' I said. 'Yes', they said....and so began a delightful Marmite moment. Bill and Angelika Pollack had journeyed all the way from McLean, Virginia (well, it seems a long treck for us Capitol Hillites) to buy the book. They had called MM earlier in the week, after the syndicated Washington Post columnist John Kelly fired his opening salvo in the Massacre of Marmite, to reserve a copy. To catch-up on that see blog: Another War For Washington.

I was so happy that I just happened to be there when they turned up - so I could sign it for them. Mish-Mash is going to their daughter-in-law Kerry (who is not only British but from Yorkshire, as I am). She and their son Michael live in Germany. Angelika, who is German born, and Bill, who's a New Yorker, read John's wonderful take on Marmite, and the book, and it struck an immediate chord. Hard for it not to: Kerry, is so devoted to the stuff, she brought a jar with her when she and Michael visited for Thanksgiving. Just hope she enjoys dipping into the book as much she loves dipping into the Marmite jar!

ANOTHER WAR FOR WASHINGTON!

2009-12-03T15:41:00.005Z

Poor, beleagured Washington, DC - it has another war to cope with! Over Marmite!

John Kelly (see: Post About The Post) has really put a M-splattered, extremely sharp, wounding knife into the hands of the faithful. His first column (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/29/AR2009112902361.html) triggered such an avalanche of protests and complaints, he was obliged to do a follow-up column (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/02/AR2009120203660.html)

When I decided to write a book about Marmite I had an instinct that it would strike a chord. But I had absolutely no idea that people feel so passionately about the stuff. And have to say, that after all this time with my head in a Marmite-jar, I still don't get it. Just amazed how people can get stirred and shaken by the mere mention of it. In this case the reaction to John Kelly's column was nothing short of a true testament of devotion to the black magic. Talk about people coming out of the woodwork to defend their must-have-spread.

The next round in this battle was fought the following day. John bravely 'chatted' - in an online forum - to those who had massacred him for massacring Marmite. He invited me to join him. It would have been cowardly of me to decline. Though have to admit I was somewhat nervous. But it wasn't so much an an onslaught of little squat brown jars, with sunny yellow lids drawn - as good natured banter, that really pin-pointedt, love it or hate it, Marmite is fun to mess with! To read what went down in this spirited, fast-moving exchange to to: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2009/11/25/DI2009112502982.html

But that was not the end of it. The same day the Marmite issue amazingly spilled over into the Letters to the Editor of the Washington Post. (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/opinions/feedback/Archive_1.html) How wonderful that in these days of gloom and woe (between the real wars, the economy and health-care) this august publication has such a good persepective on the whacky world we live in.

POT A PLANT

2009-12-02T18:57:00.002Z

Mish-Mash reveals that one of the best uses for an empty M-jar is to use it as a seedling pot. The dark-brown glass protects the roots from exposure to light, which does them no good at all. And a Marmite jar certainly has a much better look than a black plastic carton. And to encourage everyone to use them this way, my good pal Stephanie Cavanaugh has posted on her blog (http://whoneedsflowers.blogspot.com/) the image shown here. You could buy Marmite just for this use alone!

Mr Marmite Loves the Book

2009-12-02T15:14:00.005Z

The book records the valiant work Seamus Waldron has done to keep the love alive. He is Mr Marmite, the webmeister of the Black Magic. Seamus operates the famed: http://www.ilovemarmite.com/ To stay objective (how hard is that!) he also runs, well let's say 'owns': http://www.ihatemarmite.com/ The way he founded the site makes for very interesting reading. It was all to do with his time working in the States, when friends and colleagues were totally dumfounded about the Brits' worship of the stuff. Seamus is a good man. Not only because of his devotion to getting the M-message out there but because he has not taken offence that in the book I really mished and mashed his name. For some inexplicable reason (about from stupidity) I call him Sean. But despsite that SEAMUS has posted a great piece about the book and a wonderful audio/film 'review' on Amazon. Here is an extract from the I Love Marmite site that pretty much sums the whole thing up:

"The book is almost a social history, covering more than 100 years of the life of Marmite. The Mish-mash Dictionary covers Marmites place in medicine, its role in education, wars, its many unlikely uses (apart from eating it), and more."

Anyone who comes in contact with Seamus over his mighty-M doings quickly realise that he does not dance around the subject. Not that he can't 'dance'. He is not only a good dancer, he is a meister in that too. Modern jive is his thing. In fact, let me not 'dance' around: he is so good he owns three dance-schools, two in London and one in Quainton, Bucks. Not only owns - but teaches. So if you would love to learn the Marmite-Jive....go to: http://www.jivenation.co.uk/

A Post About The Post!

2009-11-30T16:33:00.005Z

John Kelly, of the Washington Post, is my new best friend. You bet he is, after the piece he penned. And the 'haters' among you are going to love him too. For his first hysterically funny take on Marmite was followed by a sizzling 'mea culpa'. Then to top it all the Post ran - among all the serious issues of the day - a letter about the eruption of the Marmite War. Here is an extract from the first column ... Marmite, an English condiment that is perhaps the foulest compound legally sold for human consumption...I took a bite and immediately felt as if I'd been hit in the face by an ocean wave, a wave befouled by oil from a sinking tanker, oil that had caused a die-off of marine birds and invertebrates, creatures whose decomposing bodies were adding to the general funkiness of the wave that had found its way inside my mouth....Talk about a Marmite-novice getting it! John was introduced to the black-goo when he came to the Capitol Hill launch. And he kindly gave Marvelous Market (see previous post) a good mention. Read the article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/11/29/AR2009112902361.html This was followed by this: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/02/AR2009120203660.html and this is the letter: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/03/AR2009120304304.html?sub=AR

This Market is Marvelous

2009-11-30T01:55:00.003Z

Marvelous Market, on Capitol Hill, Washington, DC, is being totally marvelous (that's 'marvellous' in Brit-English). They have a wonderful display - of Marmite and the book. And a great sign explaining that I'm a local resident and pointing out, to those who have no clue what it is all about, that the book is a 'primer' for those attempting to brush-up on their anglophile tendencies. Seth, the owner of MM, has valiantly tried the black-goo - to test the 'horror' he's inflicting on unsuspecting customers - but so far, is not a covert. Good for him that his personal experience has not put him off supporting me!

Thanks to the 'Daughters'

2009-11-29T22:00:00.001Z

The book is winning recognition all over the place. How about the great plug given by the DBE - ie The Daughters' of the British Empire. It's a US organisation that has chapters coast-to-coast. I was taken by the fact that the Louisanna branch has a page devoted to Marmite. Which is why The DBE ended up in the book. In return they have kindly written about Mish-Mash. Go to: http://www.dbeinla.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=195&Itemid=236

This Says It All!

2009-11-28T02:57:00.003Z

One of Britain's most popular and entertaining food blogs is written by Msmarmitelover....she operates The Undergound, a pioneer and leader in the new 'illegal' at-home fine-dining establishments. Msmarmitelover - whom has to stay anonymous so her home-restaurant, in Kilburn, North London, doesn't get busted by the red-tape cops - has written a glowing review (on: http://theenglishcaneat.blogspot.com/2009/11/marmite-stock.html). It reads:

In recent weeks I've been sent two books: The Bumper book of Marmite and The Mish Mash dictionary of Marmite. The first is modelled on a kid's annual. It has comics, games, puzzles and a few recipes. It's bit of a gimmicky book, out for the Christmas market. There was obviously a large budget but I don't know why they bothered. Aside from some good recipes from Signe Johansen, there are weak jokes and pointless artwork. I've bought some really amusing annuals in the past, Monty Python and AliG for instance, but this just doesn't cut it. It's all form and no content. I wouldn't say I hated it, but I don't love it.

The Mish Mash dictionary of Marmite at £8.99 lacks the gloss but is rather more interesting for genuine fans of the brown stuff. For a start, I'm mentioned in it under 'U' for Underground Restaurant! Writer Maggie Hall has put in lots of fascinating anecdotes and has obviously spent time researching the all-important subject of Marmite.
Under 'internet' there are more than 430,000 entries if you google 'Marmite'. Under 'C' you will see that cats love Marmite. Under 'J' for jewellery she mentions Rachel Sherman who sells Marmite jewellery (pictured above) on etsy and her own site. Paul A Young's wonderful marmite and chocolate truffles have an entry under 'Y'. This is to name but a few entries...you could spend hours reading this book...love it!

Thanks, Msmarmitelover!

Ex-Pats Ahoy!

2009-11-27T17:05:00.004Z

The word about Mish-Mash is spreading! Around the world - thanks to the British Expats Directory. It's run by Mike Rose, who lives in Thailand and he's posted a great piece about the book. Also an interview with me. So if you're a Brit in Oz and you find a book in your Christmas stocking from a Brit pal in Canada, you know who's responsible. Check-out this informative and fun (bit like Mish-Mash actually) website: http://www.britishexpatsdirectory.com/

And English-speakers in Germany have now been introduced to Mish-Mash. ESC - English Speaking Cologne ( http://english-speaking-cologne.blogspot.com/) - has posted a piece, detailing a couple of the fascinating Marmite German-links. Its highlighted one from the very start of Marmite to pin-pointing absolutely the latest news about a German Marmite alternative, that is very popular in Britain. From the 'Beginnings' entry it mentions how the brilliant chemist Baron Justus von Liebig (he of OXO fame) joined forces with Louis Pasteur to make edible sense out of the beery-yeast mess. The up-to-date reference is to Vitam-R, the German yeast-extract - that has launched a maple-syrup laced version (that is soooo good.) Another German reference is the one to steamy-novelist, Danielle Steel. Her German grandfather came up with the formula for Vegex - the American Marmite.

An Independent View!

2009-11-19T20:46:00.000Z

Cracked it! Now Mish-Mash has gone media national. The Independent (of London) carried a feature exploring the way in which Marmite is the flavour of the moment. The article - a terrific read, splendidly written by Holly Williams - underlines the original thought that prompted the book: what the heck is going on here? It talks about the Marmite Shop in London's poshest retail strip, ie Regent Street (it's a Pop-Up spot that opened early November for 10 weeks) and mentions Unilever's 'official' Marmite book, but - I am happy and proud to relate - concentrates largely on Mish-Mash. And the Indie's interest had me flying high metaphorically - as I was literally flying at 36,000 feet. Picked-up the newspaper just as I boarded my trans-Atlantic flight back to DC. Read the article at: http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/features/marmite-its-spreading-all-over-1823086.htm

WASHINGTON DC LAUNCH

2009-10-28T15:05:00.006Z

"Before I sign, tell me where you stand on the M-debate...?"

What a tremendous turn-out! What tremendous support! What a tremendous experience! The U.S. launch - staged in my adopted home-town of Washington DC (Saturday, November 21) was a day to remember. Not only for me - but for all those folk who not only turned up at the 'elevenses-into-brunch' event and bought a book but actually dared to take their first taste of the mighty-M. It was offered in the most traditional way: on buttered toast. Husband Gary - he of 'Tar-in-a-Jar' fame - was the toast-master. And although he cannot abide the stuff, he valiantly encouraged the Marmite novices to have a go - instructing them to spread it sparingly. At least for the first go around. Mini-bagels were also offered - as well as as: Marmite Hit Egg Salad, and thin-link sausages cooked in a Marmite marinade. The latter were scoffed in record time - and voted 'top-taste', even by those who wanted to spit out the unadulterated Marmite! It cannot be reported that the cake - broken up sponge mixed with equal parts of marmalade and Marmite, and topped with an icing of melted butter and M and grated Cheddar - went down well. But a few brave souls tried it, with several of them voting it 'fantastic'. (I agree with them. The following day I had some heated in the microwave and have to reveal: it was totally 'moreish'. If it was served without the ingredients being identified I think everyone would rave about it!)

The best 'first' tasting story came from a woman who tried it tentativly, then - before diving into it with relish - declared it 'great'. Telling me this, as I prepared to sign her copy, she admitted she had no sense of smell. And wondered if this had helped her get it down. I could hear the 'hate' camp roaring - 'yes'!

Happily, for the extremely timid, two thoughtful friends, Lynn Campbell and Margaret Starkey, produced a delicious salmon mousse and a yummy pumpkin bread. I resisted telling them that they might have both been enhanced by a dollop of M. Only kidding!

Amazingly, the number of books sold exceeded the total sale of all four signings in Britain. The reasons for buying reflected all the marketting targets. Many were bought as gifts for American relatives/friends living 'over the pond'; quite a lot for British colleagues and friends, both here and there; one guy bought for the British golf pro at his club and the Brit who coaches him in 'real tennis'; several bought for themselves as a memory of time spent in Britain, when they acquired a taste for the black-goo; and some because they 'love' me and would have forked out for a copy even if it had been the most boring book in the world. A big thank-you to everyone! Especially to Margaret (she of the pumpkin bread) who collected the cash. And to Lynn (of the salmon mousse) who ran the errand to the bank to get a fistful of fivers, to ensure there was change. It would have been impossible for me to have signed and taken care of the money. At times there were a eight or nine people in line. Eat your heart out Sarah Palin! A sign of the signing mania was that my pen ran out of ink - and I only had one cup of coffee during the two hour session.

The event was on Capitol Hill and kindly hosted by the American Legion Post 8 - in its wonderful space on 3d and D St, SE. The good sales meant the Legion ended-up with a decent donation. After all the excitement a few of us celebrated in the Legion bar with Bloody Marys, made with a dollop of M instead of Worcester Sauce. Believe me - after you've perfected the knack of getting it to mix in - it's the Bloody Mary way to go.

But nothing about the event would have been a 'go' without my pal Barbara Rich. She arranged the space, she spread the word, she raced around town getting party supplies - while I...? Well, sat around practicing my signature! And on the day she was the 'foreman': setting up the room, keeping the coffee pot filled, making tea, greeting people - then organised the packing-up of everything, while I....? Chatted away to Washington Post reporter John Kelly. To see what fun he had with the whole Marmitey affair, see: 'A Post About the Post'.

BRIT LAUNCH PARTY A TASTY DO!

2009-10-24T20:54:00.004+01:00

The launch party - held on the publication date, October 15th - was a memorable event. The food almost overshadowed the book! The buffet was a unique spread. Every dish had Marmite in it. There was soup, pasta, pate, sausage rolls, dainty pinwheel sandwiches, savoury pastries, chicken bites, all incredibly enhanced with a dollop of the mighty-M! Even guests who can't stand the stuff, gave the food the thumbs up.

The food was prepared by Tracy and Mark Witherington, owners of the Grape Vine, a cozy bistro-cafe in Whitby and their chef, Mark Rowell. They had taken many of the menu ideas from Marmite cookery books, dating back to the 1920s. But the big hit of the night they made up themselves: black pudding with a Marmite drizzle. It's going on their permanent breakfast menu.

The other surprsing hit of the night was the dessert that I made. I started out to make the cake that is featured in the book. It's a plain sponge with an 'icing' - or 'frosting' for American readers - of melted butter and Marmite, topped with shredded Cheddar Cheese. Sounds gross but it has a loyal following around the world. But I am no baker and I totally screwed-up the making of the sponge cake. How difficult is that - but I did! Anyway, determined not to have to start all over again, I mashed-up the sunken cake, grabbed a jar of Marm-A-Lite (a mix of marmalade and Marmite, made by that clever cover-designer chap, Rex, which is also in the book) and stirred it in. Then I plonked that 'mess' into a shallow casserole and put the topping on. They were fighting over it! Hard to believe, I know....

BOOK SIGNINGS

2009-10-24T20:32:00.012+01:00

The 'signings' - well, the ones in Britain - are over. And what a blast they've been. Have been to quite a few in my time. But never thought I'd ever do one. Have to admit, loved every minute - of all four of them.

The first one was Sunday afternoon, November 1st. I was at the Red Brick in Batley, Yorkshire. The Redbrick is a wonderful retail space, in a beautifully converted woollen mill. A Bond Street of the North! The signing was in the library coffee shop, Barca Caffe. Owner George Alexander was not only taken with the book but the fact that I started work (not counting how many years ago) down the road at the Dewsbury Reporter. Book-buyers (even non-buyers) not only enjoyed a mighty-M snack, but met my great niece, 10-year-old Ellie - who was happy to tell everyone that she did not agree with the you either love it or hate mantra. "I can take it or leave it," she pronounced. The afternoon also reunited me with one of my friends from school. I was knocked-out when Jean Overend (or, Bolton, as I knew her) turned up - with our 1954 form photo! The terrific boost for us both was that I reconised her right away, she did me - and Ellie picked us both out on the photo!

The next signing was in Newcastle, at the Blackwell Bookshop, the legendary bookshop chain, in the city centre. It was from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on November 6th. Marmite and I were up against stiff competition. The Queen was in town! At the newly-vamped museum, just down the road - which was blocked off for a while. Even so did quite well. And had some interesting exchanges with people. One young woman bought it and gave to her boy-friend over lunch. He is not a fan but she wants him to be because she can't live without it. Later she came rushing back into the store to tell me that his initial reaction to the book was that he loved it. Got a kick out of it. And said he would try to take the message I'd written to heart. It said: 'Try harder to like it!' Another buyer was an elderly gentleman, a retired French professor - who taught at Newcastle University and has lectured at Yale. He had a quick flick through the book and declared: 'I've got to have this. I'm not a particular Marmite fan but this is fascinating information.' And the message I got repeatedly was: 'That's one Christmas present solved.'

The next stop was the Saltaire Book Shop, between Bradford and Bingley, on the evening of Thursday, November 12th. The shop, an independent run by Yvonne Woodhead and David Ford, has a wonderful atmosphere - with its easy chairs, sofas and coffee-tables laid out with best-sellers next to off-the-wall offerings, like Mish-Mash! It was a terrific, fun event - thanks to the people who turned out in the most awful, wet and windy, weather. A highlight was the 'What Do You Know About Marmite?' quiz. After I'd finished chatting, we had an informative and entertaining (just like the book) Q & A session. I was extremely chuffed when one woman said: "I had no idea there was so much to Marmite." Then they were put to the test. We had a quiz. The prize was a book (of course) - but the winner was not decided until after a three-way tie-break question.

Then last, but of course by no mean least, it was the turn of the Whitby Book Shop - on the evening of Saturday, November 14th. The three of us were there - moi, illustrator Dave and cover artist Rex. It was a lively success. Obviously I was delighted - but also for manager Sue Keates, who has been remarkably supportive - both during the writing of the book and now it's a reality. Marmite fans were lured into the 'signing' by a spread of mighty-M infused goodies, similar to the ones that prompted such enthused reactions at the launch party. Maybe the wine helped too! A couple of days later I crossed 'the pond' - to do it all again. In America!

MOUNTING MENTIONS!

2009-10-24T19:55:00.007+01:00

Mish-Mash is reaping good media coverage. Stories have appeared in several British national newspapers, ie the Independent ( http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/features/marmite-its-spreading-all-over-1823086.html), the Sun and the Times; been mentioned on BBC Five Live (radio) and attracted pithy comment from the Have I Got News for You team on BBC 2 (TV). Live interviews have been aired on BBC Radio Tees, BBC West Yorkshire, BBCNewcastle, Yorkshire Coast Radio and Talk Radio Europe.The Burton Mail - the Marmite factory is in the Staffordshire town it serves - ran a page feature, as have several other regional papers, including the Sunday Sun (www.sundaysun.co.uk/news/north-east-news/2009/11/08/w). The Hill Rag, of Washington DC, ran a good article(http://www.capitalcommunitynews.com/CCN_Website09/publicationhtml/papers/HR/1109/LiteraryHill1109.html More coverage, print and broadcast, is in the pipe-line.

A BOOK FOR ALL GIFTS!

2009-10-04T20:57:00.016+01:00

The THE MISH-MASH DICTIONARY OF MARMITE is going great guns! People are really cottoning on to the fact that it's an every occasion gift. It's available from online booksellers on both sides of 'the pond', around Europe and everywhere else around the world, including Australia, India and Japan. But, of course, the best thing to do is buy it from your local independent bookshop.

The Reviews Roll In!

2009-10-01T15:45:00.004+01:00

From Amazon

***** Tasty from A to Z
By BRICH "Bar"
Maggie Hall's Mish Mash Dictionary of Marmite is full of fascinating and fun facts. It's a surprising blend of product info, history, recipes, cartoons and reasons for brand loyalty or loathing. What a grand tour of the British psyche and sense of humor, as well as its breakfast table.
Yes, it is an ideal bathroom book, but I couldn't put it down. Was just too anxious to read the next silly, sexy, touching, ironic, or helpful item -- most of which were revelations. Your UK friends and closet Anglophiles like me may appreciate this book the most, but almost anyone will enjoy it. People who love Marmite, or love to hate it, are everywhere. As I learned from M3 -- Mish Mash Marmite -- the salty spread has even traveled to outer space! For the record: Marmite isn't my thing. Make mine peanut butter & jelly on a toasted English muffin, thank you.

***** There Will Always Be an England
By Garry Clifford

The sun may have dimmed a bit on the once mighty British Empire, but its legacy lives on in weird and wonderful ways. One of the most widespread is the iconic breakfast spread of gooey black concentrated yeast extract known as "Marmite." Regarded by the Brits as a national treasure, the brown jar with
the bright yellow lid shows up in some of the most remote places on the globe. (Just this year Jesus appeared in Wales in a Marmite lid). People love it or loathe it.Maggie Hall, an intrepid reporter, who has spent the last 40 years covering both sides of the pond, has written a delightfully funny book about this little wonder titled:
"The Mish-Mash Dictionary of Marmite, an anecdotal A-Z of 'Tar-in a-Jar'. "Filled with wonderful historical stories and bizarre lore, it is a great read for nearly everyone and not for Brits alone. But if you're a Brit--Buy Two!

***** A Royal Hoot!, October 10, 2009
By Stephanie Cavanaugh

Though, apparently, Marmite is certified Kosher (see p. 96), it doesn't come close to the joys of chopped liver and gefilte fish. (Oh? You don't find those joyful?) But even for those (like me) who can't stomach the stuff, this book is a treat. Delightfully written and cleverly illustrated, it's at the top of the gift list for all my Brit friends. From a quickie, quoted here in its entirety: "Prostitute: in old Parisian Patois, slang, `marmite' was the term for a whore." To a three page entry on Umami - the "fifth taste," here you have the perfect bathroom
reader; an opus that can accommodate any length movement.

From Barnes and Noble:

***** Love It or HateIit

Whatever your view on Marmite, the iconic Brit spread for toast, you'll love this book. It's the perfect gift for Christmas, but it is also an ideal book for dipping into, at any time. Packed with history, fun and total trivia, it is easy to read at any time. Buyers, or recipients, will keep it beside their bed or in the bathroom, maybe for ever...

*** Hate the Stuff- But Love the Book!
Reader Rating
The Brits say you either love Marmite or hate it. But both sides will eat this book up. It's so jammed (and jam is in there!) with history and fun, silliness and seriousness. A great gift for everyone in your life with ties 'over-the-pond' or 'down-under'. I'm an American who can't stand to get within three feet of that squat brown jar, even if it does have a sunny yellow lid - but I loved this book.!

A Taste of the Mish-Mash Marmite Dictionary "A" Section

2009-09-29T22:00:00.010+01:00

Art: Yes there is Marmite art. And as the Ubiquitous quip goes: “at last they’ve found a good use for it!

Marmart, as it’s dubbed, was a 2006 publicity campaign organized by Marmite’s owner, Unilever, in a bid to promote what a good idea it would be to retrieve it from a squeezy bottle. Top illustrator Dermot Flynn was roped in. He produced 10 pieces of toast, all adorned with a squeezy likeness of a group of you-either-love-‘em-or-hate-‘em personalities. Those featured were music mogul Simon Cowell; former prime minister Margaret Thatcher; WAG and occasional singer Victoria “Posh” Beckham; singers Charlotte Church and James Blunt; conservative leader David Cameron; chef Gordon Ramsay; actor Jude Law; bad-boy rocker Pete Doherty; and Big Brother contestant Nikki Grahame.

Frankly, it was difficult to identify some of them. But thanks to the sway that anything Marmite has on many, the “art” was hung in the prestigious Air Gallery in London’s Dover Street. And no, the squeezy impregnated toast collection was not eaten afterwards. It was put up for auction, on e-bay, and bought for the lofty sum of £920 by Wayne Withers—as a Christmas present for his wife Lisa.

A Nibble from Mish Mash Marmite Dictionary "B" Section

2009-09-29T18:00:00.003+01:00

Baldness: a myth that refuses to die is that Marmite can cure or reverse hair-loss.

The theory, fueled by the rich amounts of B-vitamins in Marmite, was first uncovered by researcher Jonathan Langley. During a study of urban myths and legends he discovered that men – especially Northerners – were given to smearing Marmite on their shiny pates.

In a letter to Marketing Week magazine, he revealed: “Appreciable, and sometimes spectacular, regrowth is said to result when Marmite is liberally and regularly applied to balding heads and left overnight.” He added: “Converts are easily recognized by their curiously colored, ebony hair and a pervasive odour.”