Humans are eating more meat than ever before. At the same time, vegetarianism is capturing more widespread attention. From Meatless Mondays to vegan options, people are talking more about meat and whether or not to eat it.Journalist Sarah Elton tackles the topic by explaining what vegetarianism is, why people choose it, and how their reasons, including religion, animal rights, food security, and the environmental cost of eating meat have changed over time. The book closes with practical tips for making the switch and perspectives from vegetarian kids. As a conflicted meat eater herself, Elton encourages freedom to choose. Lively illustrations, sidebars, and sources, plus a glossary, index, and further reading suggestions make this a friendly, comprehensive introduction to vegetarianism. AUTHOR: Sarah Elton is an award-winning author and journalist who specializes in writing about food. Her book for children, Starting from Scratch: What You Should Know about Food and Cooking, was published in 2014 to wide acclaim. Julie McLaughlin is the Vancouver-based illustrator of the Norma Fleck Awardwinning Why We Live Where We Live, and The Art of the Possible: An Everyday Guide to Politics. SELLING POINTS: . Shows the history of meat-eating, different cultural and historical practices related to food consumption . Elton is the author of Starting From Scratch AGES: 8-12