JESSE KATZ'S "THE RENT COLLECTORS" BECOMES FIRST BOOK EVER TO BE AWARDED A MICHELIN STAR

Recently, at the bar of famed The French Laundry in Yountville, California, three solo diners were all reading a book while relishing the three Michelin star cuisine of Thomas Keller. It is not unusual to see solo diners reading at this nearly mythical restaurant. What was striking that early Spring evening was that the three were all reading the same book, Jesse Katz’s “The Rent Collector.”

Perhaps those three diners slash readers felt the book and the restaurant had something in common. Turns out they do; Michelin stars

Monday, The Rent Collectors became the first book in the 99-year history of the Michelin Guide ever to be awarded a star Yes, you read that right. A book has been awarded a Michelin Star.

A little history is in order. The Michelin Tire company, to promote automobile travel - and hence tire useage - first began publishing a restaurant guide in France that gave out stars in 1926. By 1931 their Michelin Guide had expanded to giving out up to three stars.

With the 100th anniversary of the stars approaching. Michelin felt it was time to branch out beyond fine dining. After over three years of internal discussions - which sources say often became very heated - the Michelin board decided to promote something that goes with dining alone, reading.

Katz’s book The Rent Collectors was not the obvious choice for Michelin. It deals with the inner workings of a notorious Los Angeles street gang, the Columbia Li’l Cycos of 18th Street and everything that goes with them; killing, brutality, desperation but, ultimately, also some redemption.

As is customary for Michelin, Katz has not been notified of the honor and might even find out when he reads this story. If he is not busy reporting on another book.