Helpful Score: 2
This is a sweet story about family and community, and how food can bring them together. Magic is weaved into the story, particularly around food, similiar to Amy Reichert or some of Aimee Bender's work. (The former wrote a blurb for the cover of this book). I thought the author took the magic thing a bit too far, making the ending cheesy. Otherwise, this was a light and uplifting read with descriptions of food that will make you miss dim sum cart service.... stupid pandemic!
Heather F. (AZmom875) -
Helpful Score: 1
You will notice in some other reviews that the magical realism was just too UNrealistic. That emotions could burn a stool you are sitting on, or a persons words could cut you and cause you to bleed, that statues could fly away and leave behind feathers. It was way too much magic and not enough realism.
I love the genre Magical Realism, this was just not the same.
On a good note, the sense of community, and the beauty of the food recipes were very appealing. I wanted to cook some of that food.
The love at first sight was a tiny bit over the top to me too.
You know there was so much over the top. I plugged along and I was glad when it was over.
I love the genre Magical Realism, this was just not the same.
On a good note, the sense of community, and the beauty of the food recipes were very appealing. I wanted to cook some of that food.
The love at first sight was a tiny bit over the top to me too.
You know there was so much over the top. I plugged along and I was glad when it was over.
Helpful Score: 1
2.3 stars. If you like to cook, there are A LOT of recipes in this book - and this book is DESCRIPTIVE from the food, to the sounds, to the locations, it was excessive. Mostly, I found this story to be a bit over the top and couldn't wait for it to finish. Natalie falls in love after Daniel eats her dumplings, the twist about her dad at the end, the magic of the recipes - it was more fantasy than I was expecting. There is a good overall message about community
Delightful read! Come journey through Chinatown with Natalie.
I really enjoyed this book. Full of love, culture, tradition, family, friendship and food. I loved reading about the neighborhood dynamic. I did find myself slipping a bit towards the middle, waiting for the juice of the story. But, I've already recommended it to another friend. Thanks first to read!
