What do you think?
Rate this book
The New Breadline: Hunger and Hope in the Twenty-First Century
THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW EDITORS’ CHOICE • WINNER OF THE 2025 ZÓCALO BOOK PRIZE
A humanitarian leader with more than two decades of experience working for the United Nations takes aim at the global food crisis—revealing how hunger anywhere affects lives everywhere and what steps we can take to change course.
“This book should be required reading for the entire human race.”
—Jonathan Safran Foer, author of We Are the Weather
At the turn of the twenty-first century, more than 150 countries pledged to eradicate hunger by 2030. But with only a few years left, we’re far from reaching that goal. Instead, hunger is on the rise—America itself recently experienced levels of food insecurity not seen since the Great Depression. How could the richest nation in the world have so many people going hungry?
In The New Breadline, aid worker and activist Jean-Martin Bauer unravels this paradox. Bauer’s family fled to America during the terrors of the Duvalier dictatorship in Haiti. Now on the brink of mass starvation, Haiti and its grim history inspired Bauer to make food justice his life’s work. During his long career with the UN, Bauer learned firsthand that the problem of hunger is always political—and like all political conditions, hunger, he knew, was something we could work to change.
Traveling to the most hunger-prone countries across the globe—from Haiti, where elites hoard imported French cheese, to Madagascar, where foreign corporations are snatching up valuable land from local farmers, to right here in America, where the lines at food banks continue to grow—Bauer weaves profound personal insight with a keen understanding of the structural systems of racism, classism, and sexism that thwart true progress in the battle against hunger. The New Breadline is an inspiring call to action to end what he persuasively argues is one of the greatest threats to our society, boldly envisioning a world where we can always feed ourselves and one another.
A humanitarian leader with more than two decades of experience working for the United Nations takes aim at the global food crisis—revealing how hunger anywhere affects lives everywhere and what steps we can take to change course.
“This book should be required reading for the entire human race.”
—Jonathan Safran Foer, author of We Are the Weather
At the turn of the twenty-first century, more than 150 countries pledged to eradicate hunger by 2030. But with only a few years left, we’re far from reaching that goal. Instead, hunger is on the rise—America itself recently experienced levels of food insecurity not seen since the Great Depression. How could the richest nation in the world have so many people going hungry?
In The New Breadline, aid worker and activist Jean-Martin Bauer unravels this paradox. Bauer’s family fled to America during the terrors of the Duvalier dictatorship in Haiti. Now on the brink of mass starvation, Haiti and its grim history inspired Bauer to make food justice his life’s work. During his long career with the UN, Bauer learned firsthand that the problem of hunger is always political—and like all political conditions, hunger, he knew, was something we could work to change.
Traveling to the most hunger-prone countries across the globe—from Haiti, where elites hoard imported French cheese, to Madagascar, where foreign corporations are snatching up valuable land from local farmers, to right here in America, where the lines at food banks continue to grow—Bauer weaves profound personal insight with a keen understanding of the structural systems of racism, classism, and sexism that thwart true progress in the battle against hunger. The New Breadline is an inspiring call to action to end what he persuasively argues is one of the greatest threats to our society, boldly envisioning a world where we can always feed ourselves and one another.
- GenresNonfictionHistory
304 pages, Hardcover
Published June 25, 2024
38 people are currently reading
563 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 24, 2024
This book is a lot of a lot. It's also a must-read book.
EVERYONE
should be reading this book, because if you think that food insecurity will never affect you, you clearly have not been paying attention.
Meticulously researched [and liberally sprinkled with his own family's history in Haiti ] and spectacularly written, this book grabbed me from page one and just never let me go. Filled with information about famine, food insecurity, and the West's part in all of that, this book will anger you, bring you to tears, and leave you realizing changes need to be made - both abroad and both at home in the US and in our personal homes [the amount of food waste currently in the US is shameful; not only would it feed the people who are going hungry here in our own country, it would also feed many abroad ].
This book will change you and will change how you look at food forever and if you work to be a part of the change, you will be a better person because of it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jean-Martin Bauer, and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor/Knopf for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Meticulously researched [and liberally sprinkled with his own family's history in Haiti ] and spectacularly written, this book grabbed me from page one and just never let me go. Filled with information about famine, food insecurity, and the West's part in all of that, this book will anger you, bring you to tears, and leave you realizing changes need to be made - both abroad and both at home in the US and in our personal homes [the amount of food waste currently in the US is shameful; not only would it feed the people who are going hungry here in our own country, it would also feed many abroad ].
This book will change you and will change how you look at food forever and if you work to be a part of the change, you will be a better person because of it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jean-Martin Bauer, and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor/Knopf for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2024
I learned of this book via this review by blogger The Literate Quilter. Won't you click the link, go to their site and read their review, too? Leave a nice comment--those are so important to bloggers most of whom, like me, do this for free.
My Interest
I was in the Peace Corps in 1989-1991. That gives me somewhat of a bleeding heart. I've even been mistaken for a UN elections monitor! Everything about this book interested me, but most of all the author himself did. The child of a Hattian father and [white] French mother, related to a former Hatian "ruler" (not sure of the correct title). I knew he'd have a unique take on the humanitarian "industrial" complex as well as on the countries mentioned here. He is currently head of the UN World Food Program in Haiti.
Another long post no one will read.....lol
The Story
Bauer discusses the various international aid projects, food programs, and other international aid activities with which he has worked over the course of his career in humanitarian work. He tells all of this in a very engrossing way--"narrative nonfiction" as it should be.
My Thoughts
[Sorry--these are more notes than a true summation of my thoughts, but this book has been too hard to review in the time I've had available and it's been waiting to be posted for a few weeks now].
Chef Jose Andres, whose book We Fed An Island, is discussed. I love what he does and was glad he was featured as a bright light in this world.
The super white world of aid work and the expat life that goes with it is bloated and often useless just as the charities and IGOs and NGOs that support it. As he shows, little listening is really done in the countries. The diplomatic corps mindset of supporting their own country's interest comes first, then the "natives." Peace Corps, which I served in, now supports gender-affirmation regardless of local culture.
Missionaries are totally ignored in this book--for the most part with good reason. But there are GOOD, helpful missionaries who do community development work first, religion second. That always gets ignored today. Yes, they are few and far between in many countries, but they are a valuable part of the food security equation. Missionaries include Muslims who build mosques to foster community and may be good or bad just like Christian missionaries.
I would have liked more focus on how foreign aid interfered with farming by forcing chemical fertilizers and a western farming practices which were so detrimental. Pushing Monsanto is a sin the USA will be living down abroad for generations. Forcing people who were feeding themselves to totally change their farming methods was not the brightest idea.
I'm glad he talked about all the ways dictators use food security to solidify power. I know first hand what went on in Malawi under Kamuzu Banda. In some areas millet, sorghum, rice or cassava grew better, but corn [maize] was the staple food pushed. Even worse, the most nutrient-lacking milling of flour was seen as "best." In Zambia and Zimbabwe [before Mugabe went mad] the more nutrient-rich milling of maize flour [cornmeal] was promoted--resulting in much better health. Whole meal brown bread was also much more popular in Zimbabwe and "real" milk much more plentiful. A further food security problem in Malawi was a legacy of British colonialism. Zambia ("Northern Rhodesia"), Zimbabwe ("Southern Rhodesia"), and Malawi ("Nyasaland") were one "unit"--The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, but food production was divided--meat was raised mostly in Rhodesia. Nyasaland provide grains, rice, and fish. While ethic groups do, of course, differ widely in physical stature, people in Malawi were much worse off nutritionally even with beans and occasionally meat or fish. .
He was amazed that a RED STATE could do something positive about food at a grass roots level. Not only for the local food movement but also reclaiming farm land from developers. Another Red State program he should look at is The Patachou Foundation --one of several initiatives founded by the same person to benefit food insecure children and the community in a RED STATE. The person who started it is amazing--I was pleased to work for her husband for several years. [So absolutely sick of big shots looking down their nose at any state Trump won. Guess what? I live there and I didn't vote for him! There's a lot of us. And, even Trump voters care about their communities, donate money and give their time to helping others].
Doesn't seem to know that whites also grew and canned/preserved foods and passed this culture down. I learned from my Mom as did nearly all of my friends. I know several who did Food Preservation ("canning") in 4-H all the way through high school. Two got partial college scholarships from this activity. Often the men in those families went hunting for sport and prepped venison, duck, pheasant, or quail, or fish for the freezer. Back further they raised pigs and slaughtered them, cured the meat, made sausage, etc. Foraging for food was a thing for all who had access to berries, nuts, wild mushrooms, asparagus, etc. and still is popular. Be here during morel season!
No idea that the government has been teaching people for years to budget and prepare food--EFNEP is one program. My Mom worked with it in a RED STATE for over 15 years and won a national award for her work. A friend worked in a "sister" program that taught money management. Nor does he realize that vegetable seeds or plants are acceptable purchases on "food stamps" [today this is known as SNAP or EBT].
Decries the loss of farm land to "plywood" houses--what about to solar and wind farms? They are devouring farmland where I live and contribute very little of our energy and I am a Democrat saying that. We need better energy solutions than these slag heaps of the very near future. [I'm sick of people being snotty about almost affordable, usually very livable homes. Those Craftsman bungalows you probably wax lyrical over were the tract homes--the plywood houses--of their day, most ordered from SEARS--oh how tacky!]
He DOES allow that farmer's markets can be VERY elitist, but ignores the farmer's market sellers who just buy produce at wholesalers and mark it up. Or that few take SNAP/EBT ("food stamps") and not everyone can pay such ridiculous prices just to go home with a heirloom tomato. I love a good farmer's market, but I'm not trying to feed 3 kids on a minimum wage job.
Putting down people for eating absolutely health affordable frozen or canned vegetables or frozen or juice-packed fruit is another elitist thing he skips. Or that access to fresh, whole foods depends on where you live.
Ignores celebrity chefs and food writers who oppose and discourage the use of shelf-stable dried herbs and push more expensive, often hard find and keep fresh "fresh" herbs (which aren't fresh when bought in a plastic clam shell at a supermarket) or the fact that many simply don't have even a big enough window space or desire to grow multiple types of herbs. (Not having the desire to grow herbs does not make one "lazy").
School gardens ARE great, but most are a token--few truly help "feed" the children in the US. Often the garden idea is just another add on-that teachers are expected to oversee as well as recruit and keep a team volunteers to help with, etc., with no extra pay. Plus, how many poor urban schools have LAND to use for this? Even here in rural America, land around schools is extensive only in Middle and High Schools and all is used for sports. Elementary schools have a parking lot and playground, though newly built schools DO often now have an "outdoor classroom" area with space for some gardening and a few have green houses. My local high school career center and our community college both have garden-type "agriculture" in addition to the Future Farmers of America type large scale commercial agriculture-related courses. Green houses are often found in high schools, too.
Final Comment
This is a very good book! Don't let my comments mislead you--they are mostly my reading notes. He presents an excellent account of what goes on in the aid world.
My Verdict
3.75
The New Breadline: Hunger and Hope in the Twenty-First Century by Jean-Martin Bauer
I listened to the audio version of this book.
I learned of this book via this post: https://theliteratequilter.wordpress....
My Interest
I was in the Peace Corps in 1989-1991. That gives me somewhat of a bleeding heart. I've even been mistaken for a UN elections monitor! Everything about this book interested me, but most of all the author himself did. The child of a Hattian father and [white] French mother, related to a former Hatian "ruler" (not sure of the correct title). I knew he'd have a unique take on the humanitarian "industrial" complex as well as on the countries mentioned here. He is currently head of the UN World Food Program in Haiti.
Another long post no one will read.....lol
The Story
Bauer discusses the various international aid projects, food programs, and other international aid activities with which he has worked over the course of his career in humanitarian work. He tells all of this in a very engrossing way--"narrative nonfiction" as it should be.
My Thoughts
[Sorry--these are more notes than a true summation of my thoughts, but this book has been too hard to review in the time I've had available and it's been waiting to be posted for a few weeks now].
Chef Jose Andres, whose book We Fed An Island, is discussed. I love what he does and was glad he was featured as a bright light in this world.
The super white world of aid work and the expat life that goes with it is bloated and often useless just as the charities and IGOs and NGOs that support it. As he shows, little listening is really done in the countries. The diplomatic corps mindset of supporting their own country's interest comes first, then the "natives." Peace Corps, which I served in, now supports gender-affirmation regardless of local culture.
Missionaries are totally ignored in this book--for the most part with good reason. But there are GOOD, helpful missionaries who do community development work first, religion second. That always gets ignored today. Yes, they are few and far between in many countries, but they are a valuable part of the food security equation. Missionaries include Muslims who build mosques to foster community and may be good or bad just like Christian missionaries.
I would have liked more focus on how foreign aid interfered with farming by forcing chemical fertilizers and a western farming practices which were so detrimental. Pushing Monsanto is a sin the USA will be living down abroad for generations. Forcing people who were feeding themselves to totally change their farming methods was not the brightest idea.
I'm glad he talked about all the ways dictators use food security to solidify power. I know first hand what went on in Malawi under Kamuzu Banda. In some areas millet, sorghum, rice or cassava grew better, but corn [maize] was the staple food pushed. Even worse, the most nutrient-lacking milling of flour was seen as "best." In Zambia and Zimbabwe [before Mugabe went mad] the more nutrient-rich milling of maize flour [cornmeal] was promoted--resulting in much better health. Whole meal brown bread was also much more popular in Zimbabwe and "real" milk much more plentiful. A further food security problem in Malawi was a legacy of British colonialism. Zambia ("Northern Rhodesia"), Zimbabwe ("Southern Rhodesia"), and Malawi ("Nyasaland") were one "unit"--The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, but food production was divided--meat was raised mostly in Rhodesia. Nyasaland provide grains, rice, and fish. While ethic groups do, of course, differ widely in physical stature, people in Malawi were much worse off nutritionally even with beans and occasionally meat or fish. .
He was amazed that a RED STATE could do something positive about food at a grass roots level. Not only for the local food movement but also reclaiming farm land from developers. Another Red State program he should look at is The Patachou Foundation --one of several initiatives founded by the same person to benefit food insecure children and the community in a RED STATE. The person who started it is amazing--I was pleased to work for her husband for several years. [So absolutely sick of big shots looking down their nose at any state Trump won. Guess what? I live there and I didn't vote for him! There's a lot of us. And, even Trump voters care about their communities, donate money and give their time to helping others].
Doesn't seem to know that whites also grew and canned/preserved foods and passed this culture down. I learned from my Mom as did nearly all of my friends. I know several who did Food Preservation ("canning") in 4-H all the way through high school. Two got partial college scholarships from this activity. Often the men in those families went hunting for sport and prepped venison, duck, pheasant, or quail, or fish for the freezer. Back further they raised pigs and slaughtered them, cured the meat, made sausage, etc. Foraging for food was a thing for all who had access to berries, nuts, wild mushrooms, asparagus, etc. and still is popular. Be here during morel season!
No idea that the government has been teaching people for years to budget and prepare food--EFNEP is one program. My Mom worked with it in a RED STATE for over 15 years and won a national award for her work. A friend worked in a "sister" program that taught money management. Nor does he realize that vegetable seeds or plants are acceptable purchases on "food stamps" [today this is known as SNAP or EBT].
Decries the loss of farm land to "plywood" houses--what about to solar and wind farms? They are devouring farmland where I live and contribute very little of our energy and I am a Democrat saying that. We need better energy solutions than these slag heaps of the very near future. [I'm sick of people being snotty about almost affordable, usually very livable homes. Those Craftsman bungalows you probably wax lyrical over were the tract homes--the plywood houses--of their day, most ordered from SEARS--oh how tacky!]
He DOES allow that farmer's markets can be VERY elitist, but ignores the farmer's market sellers who just buy produce at wholesalers and mark it up. Or that few take SNAP/EBT ("food stamps") and not everyone can pay such ridiculous prices just to go home with a heirloom tomato. I love a good farmer's market, but I'm not trying to feed 3 kids on a minimum wage job.
Putting down people for eating absolutely health affordable frozen or canned vegetables or frozen or juice-packed fruit is another elitist thing he skips. Or that access to fresh, whole foods depends on where you live.
Ignores celebrity chefs and food writers who oppose and discourage the use of shelf-stable dried herbs and push more expensive, often hard find and keep fresh "fresh" herbs (which aren't fresh when bought in a plastic clam shell at a supermarket) or the fact that many simply don't have even a big enough window space or desire to grow multiple types of herbs. (Not having the desire to grow herbs does not make one "lazy").
School gardens ARE great, but most are a token--few truly help "feed" the children in the US. Often the garden idea is just another add on-that teachers are expected to oversee as well as recruit and keep a team volunteers to help with, etc., with no extra pay. Plus, how many poor urban schools have LAND to use for this? Even here in rural America, land around schools is extensive only in Middle and High Schools and all is used for sports. Elementary schools have a parking lot and playground, though newly built schools DO often now have an "outdoor classroom" area with space for some gardening and a few have green houses. My local high school career center and our community college both have garden-type "agriculture" in addition to the Future Farmers of America type large scale commercial agriculture-related courses. Green houses are often found in high schools, too.
Final Comment
This is a very good book! Don't let my comments mislead you--they are mostly my reading notes. He presents an excellent account of what goes on in the aid world.
My Verdict
3.75
The New Breadline: Hunger and Hope in the Twenty-First Century by Jean-Martin Bauer
I listened to the audio version of this book.
I learned of this book via this post: https://theliteratequilter.wordpress....
October 29, 2024
Learned a lot!
September 17, 2024
I LOVE this book. Definitely solidifies that I want my career to focus on food security. Bauer talks about how global food insecurity is inherently a political issue. It's inseparable from the effects of colonization and racism, climate change, classism, sexism, disparities in education, and access to modern technology. Western influence has had such a detrimental effect on many countries, which is pretty ironic.
Bauer emphasizes that food security requires a holistic view, which academics have called the 5As: Availability, Access, Adequacy, Accessibility, and Agency. Sustainability is equally as important, because mass production isn't really the answer. He talks about a variety of solutions such as cash transfers and engagement with local farmers that could ensure this, and all of those were super interesting.
Another thing I think he discussed really well is how racial biases result in "selective generosity" of humanitarian work and the dismissal of culturally appropriate food. And I love the concept of food sovereignty and food justice. A really enlightening view into the problem of mass hunger and what needs to be done systemically and individually to alleviate and hopefully eradicate it!!!
Bauer emphasizes that food security requires a holistic view, which academics have called the 5As: Availability, Access, Adequacy, Accessibility, and Agency. Sustainability is equally as important, because mass production isn't really the answer. He talks about a variety of solutions such as cash transfers and engagement with local farmers that could ensure this, and all of those were super interesting.
Another thing I think he discussed really well is how racial biases result in "selective generosity" of humanitarian work and the dismissal of culturally appropriate food. And I love the concept of food sovereignty and food justice. A really enlightening view into the problem of mass hunger and what needs to be done systemically and individually to alleviate and hopefully eradicate it!!!
May 27, 2025
Very accessible and easy book that explains modern food insecurity challenges using a combination of historical case studies and personal experiences of the author’s professional life.
I especially liked the inclusion of the American context in how policies have failed to address (or caused) hunger - I learned something new and I appreciated including a “rich country.” My favorite chapters were in the second half on indigenous access, innovation, and race in the aid sector.
I especially liked the inclusion of the American context in how policies have failed to address (or caused) hunger - I learned something new and I appreciated including a “rich country.” My favorite chapters were in the second half on indigenous access, innovation, and race in the aid sector.
May 7, 2025
I read this book in just three days, savoring every page. Jean Martin's firsthand accounts from Haiti, the Central African Republic, Congo, and other regions provide a vivid portrayal of the complexities inherent in humanitarian work. His narratives resonate deeply, evoking memories of similar experiences in the field.
While some sections might be challenging for those unfamiliar with humanitarian contexts, the book serves as an "œuvre didactique"—a teaching piece accessible to all. It underscores the delicate balance between our aspirations to effect positive change and the often harsh realities encountered on the ground.
Jean Martin's insights into the systemic issues of global hunger, including the political and social factors that perpetuate it, are both enlightening and thought-provoking. His emphasis on the importance of local solutions and the need for systemic change offers a hopeful perspective on addressing these challenges.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of humanitarian work and the global fight against hunger.
While some sections might be challenging for those unfamiliar with humanitarian contexts, the book serves as an "œuvre didactique"—a teaching piece accessible to all. It underscores the delicate balance between our aspirations to effect positive change and the often harsh realities encountered on the ground.
Jean Martin's insights into the systemic issues of global hunger, including the political and social factors that perpetuate it, are both enlightening and thought-provoking. His emphasis on the importance of local solutions and the need for systemic change offers a hopeful perspective on addressing these challenges.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of humanitarian work and the global fight against hunger.
June 18, 2024
(Disclaimer: I know the author and have received an early copy)
This was an important book. There are many books framed as being important and necessary these days. Making sure the world doesn’t run out of food is hard to argue against though.
This was an insightful glimpse into the life of someone who’s spent the last 20 years figuring out to feed the world, through all of its messiness and complexity. This read has helped me realise why “solving world hunger” isn’t just about sending all the extra food produced in the West on a boat; and made me all the more grateful for the food I do have access to.
It was also a history lesson about parts of the world and moments I knew little about, sparked reflections & conversations.
I can only recommend this to anyone wanting to understand more about the work that humanitarian aid agencies do, through their failures and successes, to keep as many people as possible fed no matter what
This was an important book. There are many books framed as being important and necessary these days. Making sure the world doesn’t run out of food is hard to argue against though.
This was an insightful glimpse into the life of someone who’s spent the last 20 years figuring out to feed the world, through all of its messiness and complexity. This read has helped me realise why “solving world hunger” isn’t just about sending all the extra food produced in the West on a boat; and made me all the more grateful for the food I do have access to.
It was also a history lesson about parts of the world and moments I knew little about, sparked reflections & conversations.
I can only recommend this to anyone wanting to understand more about the work that humanitarian aid agencies do, through their failures and successes, to keep as many people as possible fed no matter what
September 7, 2024
Helpful, insightful; eye opening.
As someone who works in agriculture but isn’t as familiar with the history and root causes of global hunger and food insecurity, I found Mr. Bauer’s book very insightful. I finished the book with a better understanding of the dynamics surrounding the root causes of hunger (including the history and role of racial injustice), and a more hopeful sense of what some of the solutions might be — particularly the notion of food assistance that engages local farmers and food distribution and preparation businesses. I don’t necessarily agree with his view of US agriculture, but that wasn’t really the point of his book and at the end of the day I gained much understanding about one of the most important issues facing our world. The book was well written and offered a helpful distillation of the author’s experience and wisdom.
As someone who works in agriculture but isn’t as familiar with the history and root causes of global hunger and food insecurity, I found Mr. Bauer’s book very insightful. I finished the book with a better understanding of the dynamics surrounding the root causes of hunger (including the history and role of racial injustice), and a more hopeful sense of what some of the solutions might be — particularly the notion of food assistance that engages local farmers and food distribution and preparation businesses. I don’t necessarily agree with his view of US agriculture, but that wasn’t really the point of his book and at the end of the day I gained much understanding about one of the most important issues facing our world. The book was well written and offered a helpful distillation of the author’s experience and wisdom.
October 16, 2025
I'm not big on non-fiction but I read this for September -- Hunger Action Month. I learned a lot about hunger around the world and humanitarian efforts to address it. In the end, it all boils down to - surprise! - income inequality and racism.
July 9, 2024
Written by the new director of the office I used to work at in Haiti, this book not only offers in-depth insight into the current situation there but also draws on the wealth of experience of a career humanitarian to take a broader look at the forces influencing hunger around the world. It also examines broader issues in the humanitarian sector like racism and the complexities involved in delivering assistance in a rapidly changing world, while sharing engaging stories and personal accounts throughout. I highly recommend it.
June 12, 2024
4.5 stars. Incredible book that illuminates modern issues in world hunger. Bauer has a ton of experience both on the ground and in the office, and his stories are insane. He focuses on his areas of expertise: central Africa, Haiti, and West Virginia, but addresses many other cases. Especially given the ongoing hunger crisis in Gaza, this is essential reading for anyone interested in contemporary issues.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2024
I really recommend this to anyone who studies or works in international affairs
November 10, 2024
Every humanitarian should read this book - even if not working with food security/aid. Simply amazing!
January 22, 2025
This was a quick and good read about hunger and food insecurity in our present moment. A bunch of this book very much criticizes neoliberalism and the privatization and globalization of the food network and the food chains that sustain humans.
I really liked the writing style of this book as well, and Bauer does a good job at integrating his own experiences into the deeper history and theory of this field.
I really liked the writing style of this book as well, and Bauer does a good job at integrating his own experiences into the deeper history and theory of this field.
June 26, 2024
Thank you to Knopf for my advance electronic copy. My opinions are my own.
At the turn of this Century hopes were high that hunger could be eradicated in 30 years and a global struggle began to meet that goal. Despite amazing results in other, similar goals in the improvement of life worldwide in the new millennium, the problem of hunger only got worse...fast. In this comprehensive, well-analyzed examination of that effort, Jean-Martin Bauer gives us an expert insider's perspective of how we went wrong. Bauer has worked for a number of key actors in the field, both on the ground and at worldwide headquarters, and provides example after example to support his precise yet accessible analysis. I have worked in the same field of humanitarian response for over twelve years, and I have seen and can validate a small piece of what Bauer describes: a mix of exploitative politics, international and domestic opportunism, and natural shocks has exacerbated existing inequalities that are at the root of hunger. There is enough food in the world to feed everyone--we should be able to feed ourselves and each other--but inequalities of food production and distribution separate us into the "haves" and the "have nots." But Bauer also offers us hope that the future can be better, outlining how we can now identify and track food and hunger in real time, using technology and lessons learned from the past to achieve food justice. But that optimism comes with the warning that, as human beings are imperfect, so too will our systems be. We need to ensure that the data that feeds and shapes a more equitable system lives up to humanitarian standards and doesn't exacerbate food injustice.
At the turn of this Century hopes were high that hunger could be eradicated in 30 years and a global struggle began to meet that goal. Despite amazing results in other, similar goals in the improvement of life worldwide in the new millennium, the problem of hunger only got worse...fast. In this comprehensive, well-analyzed examination of that effort, Jean-Martin Bauer gives us an expert insider's perspective of how we went wrong. Bauer has worked for a number of key actors in the field, both on the ground and at worldwide headquarters, and provides example after example to support his precise yet accessible analysis. I have worked in the same field of humanitarian response for over twelve years, and I have seen and can validate a small piece of what Bauer describes: a mix of exploitative politics, international and domestic opportunism, and natural shocks has exacerbated existing inequalities that are at the root of hunger. There is enough food in the world to feed everyone--we should be able to feed ourselves and each other--but inequalities of food production and distribution separate us into the "haves" and the "have nots." But Bauer also offers us hope that the future can be better, outlining how we can now identify and track food and hunger in real time, using technology and lessons learned from the past to achieve food justice. But that optimism comes with the warning that, as human beings are imperfect, so too will our systems be. We need to ensure that the data that feeds and shapes a more equitable system lives up to humanitarian standards and doesn't exacerbate food injustice.
October 20, 2024
In just 240 pages, The New Breadline covers tremendous ground beautifully. From Mauritania, to Appalachia, Kabul, and sixteenth century France, Jean-Martin explores how local and global food systems relieve and perpetuate hunger. Food is a big and complex topic, but the New Breadline is a deft guide, combining assessments of political economy, history, and deep personal perspective as a seasoned humanitarian leader. An accessible book for all and a must read for aspiring humanitarians.
November 19, 2024
Bauer has worked for UN World Food Programme for a couple decades, this book is a collection of personal dispatches from his experiences on the front line of food crises in Haite, Madagascar, Republic of Congo, Liberia, Afghanistan and Syria and even the US. Key observation is that hunger is almost always the result of political choices – which suggests solutions are available. But the situation is getting worse, not better.
January 5, 2025
This book is a lot. Tons of information about what led to and what continues to lead to hunger around the world. It is a bit dry, like a text book, but hugely informative and interesting in discussing non-American cultures and how food aid has developed and continues to support initiatives to ease hunger around the world. I found d the information and history discussed in this book interesting and important.
November 29, 2025
This should be prerequisite reading for anyone who joins the UN or a humanitarian organisation. The author is the epitome of the modern humanitarian in my opinion. A person who has hope, confidence, compassion, but does not have the martyr or saviour complex. At the same time he is a realist and acknowledges the mistakes and shortcomings of humanitarian work. Very inspiring and insightful. Does not get more real. I also loved the historical context mixed in with his own experience. So cool that he tried to truly understand and participate in the local communities that his organisation was supporting.
September 23, 2025
Not radical framework shifts for me but grounded in excellent, relevant case studies.
July 17, 2024
A brilliant insight on global food supply systems closely studying hunger in the 21st century, mentally mapping the historical reasons and recommending solutions for future individual and social impact.
June 30, 2024
With over 20 years of on-the-ground experience, humanitarian aid worker Bauer delves deeply into the issues of food accessibility and its historical context. He explores the impact of colonialism, politics, technology, power imbalances, climate change, racism, and war on communities. Bauer interweaves case studies from America, Central Africa, Gaza, Yemen, and Syria, while also examining the roles of France, Britain, and China. Furthermore, he critiques the challenges within and faced by humanitarian aid agencies.
This book offers a thorough analysis of existing problems and the likelihood they will persist without intervention. Despite its critical perspective, the book remains optimistic, presenting solutions. It is an accessible read that will prompt reflection on current global issues. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
This book offers a thorough analysis of existing problems and the likelihood they will persist without intervention. Despite its critical perspective, the book remains optimistic, presenting solutions. It is an accessible read that will prompt reflection on current global issues. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
October 6, 2024
This book about the various faces of hunger today is a thoughtful person who works for the World Food Program. Like his career, the book covers food insecurity in various locations around the world, discussing their causes and ideal solutions. He is a big fan of World Central Kitchen, the nonprofit that goes into troubled areas to feed the starving. Its business model works with local food producer, rather than rely on "aid" being stockpiled from wealthier countries. The book is thought-provoking and very readable. It's amazing that after so many years in the industry the author is still idealistic and not cynical.
July 27, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
Jean-Martin Bauer's The New Breadline: Hunger and Hope in the 21st Century offers a critical examination of how colonial capitalism has perpetuated food crises from historical epochs to the modern-day epidemic of food deserts. Bauer, a Haitian-American humanitarian aid worker, draws from his extensive field experience to illuminate the political and historical contexts of food access, deftly revealing the havoc industrialization and commercial farming have wrought on vulnerable communities.
The book opens with Bauer's poignant recollections of his time providing aid in Haiti, a country deeply scarred by colonial exploitation and modern economic disparities. His firsthand experiences underscore a central theme: the systems creating and sustaining acute hunger are deeply embedded in political and economic frameworks. Bauer effectively unearths the intricate connections between politics and food, demonstrating how global capitalism has commodified food, transforming it from a basic necessity into a privilege accessible only to those who can afford it.
Bauer's writing is both direct and analytical, employing clear and impactful language to highlight systemic issues and historical contexts. He argues that economic disparities are the primary drivers of food insecurity, drawing parallels between capitalism, the climate crisis, commercialized farming, and the food industry. Through detailed analyses, Bauer elucidates how these unsustainable and inequitable models exacerbate global hunger.
The book is particularly compelling in its staunch anti-neoliberal approach, revealing how global capitalism's impact on impoverished nations has created and maintained food crises. Bauer's arguments expose the failures of international governmental bodies to protect citizens from starvation inflicted by corporate greed and colonial legacies. His assertion that those who control the food ultimately control the people, both in times of war and peace, is a powerful reminder of the political nature of hunger.
Despite the grim realities presented, The New Breadline is not without hope. Bauer documents the resilience and creativity of communities impacted by food crises, showcasing strategies of survival and resistance. From Haiti's hurricane and dictator recovery efforts to the Central African Republic's 2013 crises, and from Yemen and Syria's civil conflicts to the COVID-19 pandemic's revelation of food insecurity in upper-middle-class white communities, Bauer's experiences provide a rich tapestry of global perspectives.
Bauer's critique extends to the complacency toward hunger affecting marginalized groups and the sudden urgency when it impacts more privileged populations. This dichotomy underscores the pervasive inequalities in our global food systems and calls for a collective reimagining of food access. Bauer's vision of "a better food future for us all" is both an inspiring call to action and a sobering reminder of the work that remains.
The New Breadline is a vital contribution to the discourse on food justice, offering profound insights into the systemic and structural causes of food insecurity. Bauer's blend of personal narrative and analytical rigor makes for a compelling and enlightening read, challenging readers to confront the political realities of hunger and to envision a world where food is a right, not a commodity.
📖 Recommended For: Readers who seek insightful analysis of global food crises, those interested in the intersections of politics and food security, anyone passionate about social justice and humanitarian work, fans of books by activists and aid workers like Paul Farmer.
🔑 Key Themes: Colonial Capitalism, Economic Disparities, Systemic Corruption, Resilience and Resistance, Global Food Insecurity, Political Control through Hunger.
Content / Trigger Warnings: Pandemic (moderate), Murder (moderate), Torture (severe), Enslavement (moderate), War (moderate), Genocide (minor), Animal Cruelty (minor), Cannibalism (minor), Sexual Assault (minor).
Jean-Martin Bauer's The New Breadline: Hunger and Hope in the 21st Century offers a critical examination of how colonial capitalism has perpetuated food crises from historical epochs to the modern-day epidemic of food deserts. Bauer, a Haitian-American humanitarian aid worker, draws from his extensive field experience to illuminate the political and historical contexts of food access, deftly revealing the havoc industrialization and commercial farming have wrought on vulnerable communities.
The book opens with Bauer's poignant recollections of his time providing aid in Haiti, a country deeply scarred by colonial exploitation and modern economic disparities. His firsthand experiences underscore a central theme: the systems creating and sustaining acute hunger are deeply embedded in political and economic frameworks. Bauer effectively unearths the intricate connections between politics and food, demonstrating how global capitalism has commodified food, transforming it from a basic necessity into a privilege accessible only to those who can afford it.
Bauer's writing is both direct and analytical, employing clear and impactful language to highlight systemic issues and historical contexts. He argues that economic disparities are the primary drivers of food insecurity, drawing parallels between capitalism, the climate crisis, commercialized farming, and the food industry. Through detailed analyses, Bauer elucidates how these unsustainable and inequitable models exacerbate global hunger.
The book is particularly compelling in its staunch anti-neoliberal approach, revealing how global capitalism's impact on impoverished nations has created and maintained food crises. Bauer's arguments expose the failures of international governmental bodies to protect citizens from starvation inflicted by corporate greed and colonial legacies. His assertion that those who control the food ultimately control the people, both in times of war and peace, is a powerful reminder of the political nature of hunger.
Despite the grim realities presented, The New Breadline is not without hope. Bauer documents the resilience and creativity of communities impacted by food crises, showcasing strategies of survival and resistance. From Haiti's hurricane and dictator recovery efforts to the Central African Republic's 2013 crises, and from Yemen and Syria's civil conflicts to the COVID-19 pandemic's revelation of food insecurity in upper-middle-class white communities, Bauer's experiences provide a rich tapestry of global perspectives.
Bauer's critique extends to the complacency toward hunger affecting marginalized groups and the sudden urgency when it impacts more privileged populations. This dichotomy underscores the pervasive inequalities in our global food systems and calls for a collective reimagining of food access. Bauer's vision of "a better food future for us all" is both an inspiring call to action and a sobering reminder of the work that remains.
The New Breadline is a vital contribution to the discourse on food justice, offering profound insights into the systemic and structural causes of food insecurity. Bauer's blend of personal narrative and analytical rigor makes for a compelling and enlightening read, challenging readers to confront the political realities of hunger and to envision a world where food is a right, not a commodity.
📖 Recommended For: Readers who seek insightful analysis of global food crises, those interested in the intersections of politics and food security, anyone passionate about social justice and humanitarian work, fans of books by activists and aid workers like Paul Farmer.
🔑 Key Themes: Colonial Capitalism, Economic Disparities, Systemic Corruption, Resilience and Resistance, Global Food Insecurity, Political Control through Hunger.
Content / Trigger Warnings: Pandemic (moderate), Murder (moderate), Torture (severe), Enslavement (moderate), War (moderate), Genocide (minor), Animal Cruelty (minor), Cannibalism (minor), Sexual Assault (minor).
July 15, 2024
Mass hunger has been a problem we have chosen to ignore, that we’ve conveniently banished to the arid tropics or tucked away in our inner cities and trailer parks. Feeding everyone should be the business of everyone, down to the individual. from The New Breadline by Jean-Martin Bauer
In the 1980s, my husband was the Executive Secretary for Disaster Relief at the United Methodist Committee on Relief. The people of the United Methodist Church donated money for use in disaster response and he helped to identify needs left unaddressed by other organizations. He was sent on trips to see the programs first-hand. On his trips to Haiti he saw schools high in the mountains that served lunches to the students. The children would walk for hours to reach the school for that free meal.
I had to walk blocks to elementary school, a mile to high school, not across a mountain. I took a bag lunch with a cheese sandwich and a piece of fruit. Still, I was overweight. As a chubby little girl, I felt guilty when I saw the television ads for Feed the Children. I wanted to grow up and have money just so I could send it to those children.
Even when we were students without any extra cash, we never went hungry. We raised vegetables and canned them, cooked with dry beans and canned tuna, made our own bread and yogurt.
Why was I so lucky when so many millions in America and abroad are hungry?
Jean-Martin Bauer of the World Food Program (WFP) notes that hunger is a political issue. And as so, it is something we can change.
In the The New Breadline, Bauer identifies the historical and contemporary factors that result in hunger: natural disasters, pandemics, political conflict and war, the control of land through colonization and capitalism, racism, trade agreements, failed aid systems. And, he shares solutions that work.
He begins in Gonaives, Haiti, where the WFP warehouse was sacked during political riots. Bauer was personally distraught as his mother had been born in Haiti. And he ends with the rebuilt Gonaives stockroom, this time with locally sourced foods purchased in small batches from local farmers, supporting the local economy and reducing the amount of food stockpiled, which made it less of a target.
Chapters explore the root causes of hunger in Africa and the Middle East. He reveals how racism torques aid groups and, as a biracial man, has impacted his personal life.
Bauer shows how technology has allowed financial aid to be directly distributed to individuals who then purchase locally, and considers grass root successes to be emulated.
I appreciated the many insights I gained from reading this sobering book.
“We live in a world of selective empathy, where there are good disasters and bad ones,” Bauer writes. “History teaches us that hunger and revolution go hand in hand.” He shares Jared Diamond’s insight that humanity’s switch to agriculture resulted in poorer nutrition and to environmental degradation and food shortages that today threaten all of us.
“We need to make hunger anathema,” he ends the book.
I learned so much from reading this book.
Thanks to A. A. Knopf for a free book.
In the 1980s, my husband was the Executive Secretary for Disaster Relief at the United Methodist Committee on Relief. The people of the United Methodist Church donated money for use in disaster response and he helped to identify needs left unaddressed by other organizations. He was sent on trips to see the programs first-hand. On his trips to Haiti he saw schools high in the mountains that served lunches to the students. The children would walk for hours to reach the school for that free meal.
I had to walk blocks to elementary school, a mile to high school, not across a mountain. I took a bag lunch with a cheese sandwich and a piece of fruit. Still, I was overweight. As a chubby little girl, I felt guilty when I saw the television ads for Feed the Children. I wanted to grow up and have money just so I could send it to those children.
Even when we were students without any extra cash, we never went hungry. We raised vegetables and canned them, cooked with dry beans and canned tuna, made our own bread and yogurt.
Why was I so lucky when so many millions in America and abroad are hungry?
Jean-Martin Bauer of the World Food Program (WFP) notes that hunger is a political issue. And as so, it is something we can change.
In the The New Breadline, Bauer identifies the historical and contemporary factors that result in hunger: natural disasters, pandemics, political conflict and war, the control of land through colonization and capitalism, racism, trade agreements, failed aid systems. And, he shares solutions that work.
He begins in Gonaives, Haiti, where the WFP warehouse was sacked during political riots. Bauer was personally distraught as his mother had been born in Haiti. And he ends with the rebuilt Gonaives stockroom, this time with locally sourced foods purchased in small batches from local farmers, supporting the local economy and reducing the amount of food stockpiled, which made it less of a target.
Chapters explore the root causes of hunger in Africa and the Middle East. He reveals how racism torques aid groups and, as a biracial man, has impacted his personal life.
Bauer shows how technology has allowed financial aid to be directly distributed to individuals who then purchase locally, and considers grass root successes to be emulated.
I appreciated the many insights I gained from reading this sobering book.
“We live in a world of selective empathy, where there are good disasters and bad ones,” Bauer writes. “History teaches us that hunger and revolution go hand in hand.” He shares Jared Diamond’s insight that humanity’s switch to agriculture resulted in poorer nutrition and to environmental degradation and food shortages that today threaten all of us.
“We need to make hunger anathema,” he ends the book.
I learned so much from reading this book.
Thanks to A. A. Knopf for a free book.
November 6, 2025
A Foundational and Inspiring Read for Aspiring Humanitarians
5.0 out of 5 stars - A fantastic, eye-opening, and essential primer.
I cannot recommend "A New Breadline" highly enough. This book was a truly fantastic read, perfectly balancing the human element with rigorous intellectual heft. It’s the kind of work that doesn't just inform you; it transforms your perspective on the entire field of humanitarian assistance.
What sets this book apart is its masterful structure. The author seamlessly weaves powerful, humanizing anecdotes from the front lines of food insecurity and crisis with fact-based research that is both deep and accessible. The book doesn't exist in a silo; it brilliantly links economics, political science, history, and sociology to create a holistic understanding of why humanitarian crises unfold and how aid interventions succeed or fail. This interdisciplinary approach is its greatest strength, providing a "big picture" context that is so often missing.
On a personal note, "A New Breadline" had a profound effect on me. It articulated and rekindled the very reasons I first became interested in humanitarian work. It moves beyond the cynical headlines and donor fatigue to recenter the conversation on human dignity, systemic challenges, and the possibility of meaningful change. It is both a sobering look at reality and a powerful source of inspiration.
For anyone considering or accepted into a Master's programme in International Development or Humanitarian Action, this book is the ideal preliminary read. It provides the perfect foundational knowledge, the critical interdisciplinary linkages, and—most importantly—the necessary human and ethical context that will make your academic studies infinitely more meaningful. It will give you a significant head start and a framework upon which to build your more specialized coursework.
In short, "A New Breadline" is compelling, compassionate, and brilliantly constructed. It is a must-read for students, practitioners, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how we can better respond to human suffering in our interconnected world.
5.0 out of 5 stars - A fantastic, eye-opening, and essential primer.
I cannot recommend "A New Breadline" highly enough. This book was a truly fantastic read, perfectly balancing the human element with rigorous intellectual heft. It’s the kind of work that doesn't just inform you; it transforms your perspective on the entire field of humanitarian assistance.
What sets this book apart is its masterful structure. The author seamlessly weaves powerful, humanizing anecdotes from the front lines of food insecurity and crisis with fact-based research that is both deep and accessible. The book doesn't exist in a silo; it brilliantly links economics, political science, history, and sociology to create a holistic understanding of why humanitarian crises unfold and how aid interventions succeed or fail. This interdisciplinary approach is its greatest strength, providing a "big picture" context that is so often missing.
On a personal note, "A New Breadline" had a profound effect on me. It articulated and rekindled the very reasons I first became interested in humanitarian work. It moves beyond the cynical headlines and donor fatigue to recenter the conversation on human dignity, systemic challenges, and the possibility of meaningful change. It is both a sobering look at reality and a powerful source of inspiration.
For anyone considering or accepted into a Master's programme in International Development or Humanitarian Action, this book is the ideal preliminary read. It provides the perfect foundational knowledge, the critical interdisciplinary linkages, and—most importantly—the necessary human and ethical context that will make your academic studies infinitely more meaningful. It will give you a significant head start and a framework upon which to build your more specialized coursework.
In short, "A New Breadline" is compelling, compassionate, and brilliantly constructed. It is a must-read for students, practitioners, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how we can better respond to human suffering in our interconnected world.
September 2, 2024
Having had the privilege of working closely with Jean-Martin during the turbulent years in Haiti between 2022 and 2024, I can attest to the depth of passion and expertise he brings to the subject of equitable food systems. His book is a powerful and insightful exploration of the challenges faced by developing nations, particularly in the context of food aid and humanitarian responses.
Jean-Martin is deeply committed to the idea that food assistance must go beyond mere sustenance; it must empower local and national institutions to build resilience and ensure long-term food security. He passionately argues against the practice of "food dumping" by developed nations—where surplus food is sent without consideration of its impact on local markets and production capabilities. This practice not only undermines local economies but also violates the "Do No Harm" principle, a cornerstone of ethical humanitarian intervention.
One of the most compelling points Jean-Martin makes is the absurdity of food produced and processed through complex global supply chains being cheaper than locally produced alternatives. This paradox highlights the systemic flaws in current food assistance programmes and calls for a reevaluation of how aid is distributed and its long-term effects on recipient nations.
This book is essential for academics, policymakers, and humanitarian workers committed to making a tangible difference in the fight against hunger and food insecurity. In a world where starvation persists despite abundant food, Jean-Martin’s insights are not just relevant—they are crucial for driving the change needed to create a more just and sustainable global food system.
I am eagerly looking forward to his next publication.
Jean-Martin is deeply committed to the idea that food assistance must go beyond mere sustenance; it must empower local and national institutions to build resilience and ensure long-term food security. He passionately argues against the practice of "food dumping" by developed nations—where surplus food is sent without consideration of its impact on local markets and production capabilities. This practice not only undermines local economies but also violates the "Do No Harm" principle, a cornerstone of ethical humanitarian intervention.
One of the most compelling points Jean-Martin makes is the absurdity of food produced and processed through complex global supply chains being cheaper than locally produced alternatives. This paradox highlights the systemic flaws in current food assistance programmes and calls for a reevaluation of how aid is distributed and its long-term effects on recipient nations.
This book is essential for academics, policymakers, and humanitarian workers committed to making a tangible difference in the fight against hunger and food insecurity. In a world where starvation persists despite abundant food, Jean-Martin’s insights are not just relevant—they are crucial for driving the change needed to create a more just and sustainable global food system.
I am eagerly looking forward to his next publication.
August 28, 2024
Reading "The New Breadline" by Jean-Martin Bauer was an eye-opener for me. As someone who cares about global issues but hadn’t deeply explored food insecurity, this book made the problem feel both urgent and relatable. Bauer’s use of real-world examples helped me understand how complex issues like climate change, economic inequality, and political instability lead to hunger around the world.
What I found most compelling was Bauer's focus on solutions. Instead of just highlighting problems, he discusses successful initiatives and actionable steps, which left me feeling hopeful and empowered. "The New Breadline" changed my perspective on hunger, making me realize how interconnected we all are in addressing this critical issue. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to understand global food insecurity and find ways to make a difference.
What I found most compelling was Bauer's focus on solutions. Instead of just highlighting problems, he discusses successful initiatives and actionable steps, which left me feeling hopeful and empowered. "The New Breadline" changed my perspective on hunger, making me realize how interconnected we all are in addressing this critical issue. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to understand global food insecurity and find ways to make a difference.
October 8, 2024
Jean-Martin Bauer beautifully captures the global complexities of food insecurity, while articulating the lived realities that many of us in the humanitarian field struggle to express. With a powerful blend of personal stories and insightful analysis, he illuminates the profound challenges that continue to shape our world, offering a nuanced exploration of food justice and related systemic issues. Having shared some challenging moments in the field, certain sections were a little difficult for me to read. Nonetheless, his ability to weave together broader systemic forces and their human impact is both enlightening and deeply moving. This book is essential for anyone seeking to understand the stark realities of hunger and the critical importance of building a more equitable food system.
September 26, 2024
Definitely a good read with an urgent message.
Incredibly depressing. Even though everything was factual and urgent, I found myself tuning out at least once per chapter and thinking, “ok, so everything is fucked.” He does a good job towards the end of describing some promising programs/ future directions.
Let the record show that the Confederates burnt more of their cities and farmland in riots and panic than United States forces ever did.
Incredibly depressing. Even though everything was factual and urgent, I found myself tuning out at least once per chapter and thinking, “ok, so everything is fucked.” He does a good job towards the end of describing some promising programs/ future directions.
Let the record show that the Confederates burnt more of their cities and farmland in riots and panic than United States forces ever did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews