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Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
America’s Cigar Story by Sebastian Saviano chronicles the detailed evolution of the cigar industry from early colonial times to the modern era. Saviano tracks tobacco’s introduction and its economic reliance on enslaved and immigrant labor, noting key figures like John Rolfe and Israel Putnam. He talks about industrialization, mechanization, and labor struggles, including child labor and union resistance. Saviano speaks on cigar culture spreading westward, becoming a symbol across social classes, and its ties to political figures and diplomacy. He discusses how the Cuban embargo led to innovation in Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, and covers the 1990s cigar boom, celebrity endorsements, and boutique craftsmanship. Saviano discusses technological advances and regulatory battles culminating in 2025’s FDA ruling, portraying the cigar industry’s ongoing global expansion, artisanal revival, and future focus on sustainability and personalization.
America’s Cigar Story: The History, Politics, and Legacy of Cigars from 1762 to the Modern Era by Sebastian Saviano is a polished and informative account of cigar culture’s evolution, wherein the language employs the best mix of technical detail with readability, whether describing how boutique producers utilize Kentucky tobacco or explaining modern blending techniques like bourbon barrel aging. I really liked his discussion of cigar lounges as spaces for both craftsmanship and connection, and the section on China’s growing influence, which is both timely and well contextualized. The outline and the structure of this book flow well, and the author stays on course with a unique authority, unquestionable knowledge, and a focused tone. Overall, America's Cigar Story is a wonderfully well-articulated exploration of the cigar world’s present and future, and the perfect addition to the series. Very highly recommended.
