Notes On A Beermat: Drinking and Why It's Necessary

by Nicholas Pashley

First published in 2001 to national acclaim, Notes on a Beermat is Nicholas Pashley’s ode to the amber nectar of the gods, a witty meditation on beer and everything that goes with it—from socializing to the solitary pleasures of a beer and a book, to the qualities necessary in a good pub.

Most books about beer focus on the beverage itself, how to make it and how to buy it. Notes on a Beermat, the only Canadian book of its kind, explains how to drink beer and why it is absolutely necessary. With characteristic wit and charm, Pashley observes, for example, that “to ensure a steady and regular supply of beer, it was necessary to cultivate grain. This in turn transformed early man from the hunter-gatherer to the agriculturist. Even then, beer was making people smarter.”

Whether you’re out for an after-work drink with colleagues or you’re looking for a seat at your favourite watering hole, Pashley is your guide. His stories about searching for the perfect pub, the best time of day to drink beer and the silliest pub conversation he’s ever had will leave you laughing into your pint.

Genres: Canada

336 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 30, 2008

Reviews

[Ken · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great find in Bacchus Books in Golden, British Columbia. Beer a subject already dear to my heart, however this book has given me a deeper insight into beer and the history of it in Canada and its wider roots. I loved the comparrison of Canadian beer and taverns with British ales and pubs. I have never been one for sticking to just one beer. However, this book has encouraged me to explore even wider the varieties of beer available.

[Maria Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a Christmas present and I wasn’t sure what to expect, but loving Mr. Bryson, I was willing to give it a go, and I am glad I did. Mr. Pashley takes us on a cross Canada and at times exotic journey through beer and the taverns which serve it. Satirical and at times earnest this book was a delight best read over a beer.

[Teena in Toronto · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a funny and interesting read about beer.

In addition, Pashley talks about pubs all over the world. He lives in Toronto and I've been to some of the ones he mentions here.

Especially interesting is the Subway Game ... you pick a subway station you've never been to. Then you proceed to find a licensed establishment and have a beer. And then move on to the next place and so on. It's not about winning or losing points ... it's about finding hidden treasures. Gord and I sort of do that on occasion ... we'll go for a walk and will only stop in places we've never been before.

[Brian Greiner · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable read about the pleasures of drinking, and the social aspects thereof. Very Toronto-oriented. Although it takes a humorous approach, it isn't a laugh-out-loud sort of book. It is, rather, a collection of light-hearted essays.

[The Master · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amusing bathroom reader. There I said it.