You’ll love it, I promise.
In that vein, have you read Ambitious Brew by Maureen Ogle? Not a brewing book per se but really entertaining and thought-provoking.
I’m very much enjoying the beginning Kindle preview I got for buying it.
I have read some of Maureen’s writings, and enjoyed them, but have not read Ambitious Brew yet. That is right up my alley. Very good suggestion.
Funny, I almost mentioned Michael Pollan’s books. Omnivore’ s dilemma very much influenced how I eat, cook, and source my food.
You probably have read it already, but Tasting Beer by Randy Mosher should be a required read for any home brewer or craft beer fan.
With the exception of the first 2 chapters, Modern Homebrew Recipes is going to be more of a reference book than a cover to cover reader. I received mine last weekend (preordered with Amazon). I’ve gotten through part of it and it appears it is going to be an excellent resource (there may have a lot of similar beers in the up-coming comps).
My favorite book that has been recently published is the American Sour Beers by Michael Tonsmiere. You may already have it. It is well written and very informative. Easily the best of the recent Brewer Publication books of late. If you don’t already have it I highly recommend.
Mac
Oh yeah - I have both of those. Picked up Tasting Beer when I was studying for the BJCP exam and got American Sour Beers last year. I do have to agree, American Sour Beers is one of the best books in the BP library. Although I am a little biased - the only beers I can seem to advance to NHC Finals are my funky beers! 
I need to know if this stance changed after the man himself gave you a ride to the airport?!? ;D
It changed when Jeff (and others) gave the recommendation. It doubly changed when I got to talk to John himself.
A ride from Mr. Mallett! He is really interesting to talk to, approachable, and Larry Bell calls him the smartest guy he knows. Now you probably wish the airport was farther, no?
I actually (almost) wish I hadn’t drank so much mead the night before so I could have asked more intelligent questions. We did talk about oxidation signs in lighter malt though.