So You Want to Start a Brewery?

October 1, 2014

Magee, owner of Lagunitas Brewing in Petalumas, CA, brings up to date his rollicking history of the brewery, founded during the rise of American craft brewing in the 1990s. Luckily for beer aficionados, the author managed to survive the difficulties that often accompany starting a business. Not only surviving, the Lagunitas brewery has thrived and created higher-end beers with its own distinct style that continues to draw in new fans. Magee's writing is easygoing and often pleasantly digressive, highlighting his philosophy and the brewery's business relationships, which include many great friendships; assets that have carried him through both difficult and prosperous times. Sprinkled throughout are short commentaries written by relatives and friends on Magee and his brewery. The chronicle is at its best when the author discusses the people who have shaped his company. Overall, this leads to a pleasurable read--with only a few tangents that seem more distracting than illuminating. VERDICT Highly recommended for readers who are interested in beer, business tales, or even humorous and narrative American nonfiction.--Ginny Wolter, Toledo-Lucas Cty. P.L.

Copyright 2014 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.