I read the whole book however, I was often annoyed. I had problems with Feng---she never grow while many of the others around her were more nuanced. Yes, Chinese tradition(s) are very different but in Shanghai, there was more awareness of a world beyond---even if one could …more only see it at a distant. Also, Feng's sudden realization of the world was unconvincing. Overall, however, I found the book provocative and thought about it. (less)

Normal is a small town in Illinois. However, that is the question that perplexes Ginny. It seems to be slow in the beginning but gradually I became engaged in Ginny's struggle.
She related to the world around her with fear but also through food and food memories. In cooking …more recipes, she evokes significant family members. As I read, I had my own food memories and growing experiences. Normal is a spectrum and by the end, Ginny had reached an important understanding of herself and others. (less)