This mouth-watering buffet enriched with history, culture, folklore, and personal anecdotes is divided into sections based primarily on courses of a Chinese meal (Tea, Appetizers, Soup, Side Orders, Chef’s Specials, Dessert) as author/illustrator Grace Lin details the history and traditions encompassed in various dishes of Chinese origin, along with some Chinese American offerings. She makes clear from the outset that “Chinese food” is actually food of many different regions and groups, building on this distinction as she delves into individual dishes and related stories. Lin also chronicles changes that took place when Chinese people began cooking food in the United States, adapting to what was available, and, sometimes, when opening restaurants, to preferences among the would-be customers. Throughout the work, she shares her personal connections to various dishes, which adds to the inviting feel of this informative, welcome, and welcoming volume. Each course and each dish is accompanied by cheery illustrations in this tasty treat for readers young and old, whether they’re discovering the history of foods with which they are familiar or those that are new to them. (Age 8 and older)

The perfect gift book for anyone who loves good food—and an even better story!

Newbery and Caldecott honoree and New York Times bestselling author Grace Lin delivers a groundbreaking, lushly illustrated, and beautifully written full-color book that explores the whimsical myths and stories behind your favorite American Chinese food.

A New York Times bestseller!
An ALA Notable Book
A BookPage Best Book of the Year!
A New York Public Library Best Book of 2023!

From fried dumplings to fortune cookies, here are the tales behind your favorite foods.

Do you know the stories behind delectable dishes—like the fun connection between scallion pancakes and pizza? Or how dumplings cured a village’s frostbitten ears? Or how wonton soup tells about the creation of the world? 

Separated into courses like a Chinese menu, these tales—based in real history and folklore—are filled with squabbling dragons, magical fruits, and hungry monks. This book will bring you to far-off times and marvelous  places, all while making your mouth water. And, along the way, you might just discover a deeper understanding of the resilience and triumph behind this food, and what makes it undeniably American. 

Award-winning and bestselling author Grace Lin provides a visual and storytelling feast as she gives insight on the history, legends, and myths behind your favorite American Chinese dishes. Chinese Menu makes the perfect gift book for anyone who loves good food—and an even better story.

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