4 stars
An interesting look at the initial outbreak of Covid in Wuhan through the eyes of a thirteen-year-old. Mei loves cooking, improving her skill through an online cooking game. But when the pandemic spreads, Mei faces being separated from her family, a city-wide shutdown, food shortages, neighbors turning on each other, and those around her getting sick. Using her love of cooking, Mei inspires a movement to help others. Mei helps bring her community together, even when they have to be apart.
Nicely written with a captivating story. Compestine highlights some of the ways the pandemic brought out the worst in people as well as the best in people. Through it all, she emphasizes the good, focusing on the helpers who assisted in ways big and small. A wonderful look at people coming together to change the world.
Interspersed through the first-person narrative are short recipes for the dishes cooked in the story. A fun addition to the book, especially for those interested in cooking.
The backmatter contains a glossary of cooking-related terms, some information on basic cutting techniques, and some basic information about Covid-19, specifically its spread in China.
A heartfelt read with a wonderful emphasis on community, friendship, being open and honest, and standing up for those in need.