I haven't read the book, but this guy sounds cool...
http://www.amazon.com/Food-Cooking-Science-Lore-Kitchen/dp/0684800012

The country’s foremost expert on the science of cooking and an inspiration to kitchen warriors across the world, including Alton Brown and Jeffrey Steingarten, McGee takes us from the market to the kitchen debunking culinary myths and erroneous information. From... [read more]

I haven't read the book, but this guy sounds cool...
http://www.amazon.com/Food-Cooking-Science-Lore-Kitchen/dp/0684800012

The country’s foremost expert on the science of cooking and an inspiration to kitchen warriors across the world, including Alton Brown and Jeffrey Steingarten, McGee takes us from the market to the kitchen debunking culinary myths and erroneous information. From learning how to choose better ingredients to the basics behind food preparation and safety, McGee will cover everything you need to know to create the perfect holiday meal.

Cost: $10 members, $15 non-members