Alton Brown’s flair in the kitchen developed early with guidance from his mother and grandmother. He used his budding culinary talent later “as a way to get dates” in college. Switching gears as an adult, he spent a decade working as a cinematographer and video director, but realized that he spent all his time between shoots watching cooking shows, which he found dull and uninformative. Convinced that he could do better, Brown left the film business and moved to Vermont to train at the New England Culinary Institute. He tapped all of his training to create Good Eats, Food Network's prime-time hit. This year, Brown is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his show, as well as his new book.

In an evening highlighted by clips from past episodes of Good Eats, Brown reveals his top 10 favorite moments from the early years. In addition, he discusses favorite recipes and more food puns, food trivia, and food jokes than you can shake a wooden spoon at.

Good Eats: The Early Years (STC Publishing) is available for signing after the program. To pre-order a book through the Smithsonian, call 202-633-2058. Books ordered through the Smithsonian will be available for pick-up at the program.

Connect with the Authors is a continuously updated listing of past, present, and future author visits. Through this site, each publication can be purchased in advance of, or following, the program.