Book details
Hot, Sour, Salty, Sweet
Description
Ana Shen has what her social studies teacher calls a marvelously biracial, multicultural family but what Ana simply calls a Chinese American father and an African American mother. And on eighth-grade graduation day, thats a recipe for disaster. Both sets of grandparents are in town to celebrate, and Anas best friend has convinced her to invite Jamie Tabatathe cutest boy in schoolfor a home-cooked meal. Now Ana and her family have four hours to prepare their favorite dishes for dinner, and Grandma White and Nai Nai cant agree on anything. Ana is tired of feeling caught between her grandparents and wishes she knew whose side she was supposed to be on. But when they all sit down for their hot, sour, salty, and sweet meal, Ana comes to understand how each of these different flavors, like family, fit perfectly together.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
12-15
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
176 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Exploration: 'Hot, Sour, Salty, Sweet' offers readers a rich exploration of different cultures through the lens of food and family. It's an opportunity to learn about the diverse culinary traditions and the significance they hold in the characters' lives.
- Emotional Journey: The book provides a deeply emotional and personal story that many readers can relate to. It addresses themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of family dynamics, which can resonate with a wide audience.
- Engaging Writing Style: Sherri L. Smith's writing is known for being vivid and engaging, making 'Hot, Sour, Salty, Sweet' a compelling read. Her ability to create relatable characters and paint scenes with words will keep readers hooked from start to finish.
- Positive Representation: The novel features strong representation of biracial identity and the challenges that come with it. It's an important read for those seeking to understand and celebrate diversity, as well as for those looking for representation of their own experiences.