Unlike Pollan's previous weighty tomes, to say this is a quick read is an understatement. I read it cover-to-cover in little more than a half hour. Some of the rules previously appeared at the end of "In Defense of Food," undoubtedly prompting me to read over them more quickly. Reading the book goes quickly, but like the whole foods it recommends, processing it and implementing the rules will take more time. If you're new to Michael Pollan, or the scientific nature of his previous books is a bit overwhelming," Food Rules" serves as a great summary/introduction. Once you've read it, however, dig into the details in the longer books for more lasting insight.