Raves and Reviews
*A March/April 2023 Indie Next Pick*
*A Junior Library Guild Selection*
A fun and lively book about putting your own spin on traditional ramen!” Andrea Wang, Newbery Honor-winning author of Magic Ramen and Watercress
“Get ready for ramen, handmade to order and delightful to devour! . . . Tanumihardja’s simple yet evocative prose draws readers into the drama and tension of the ramen making and brings to life Hiro’s loving, understanding family. . . . A celebration of the complexity and care that go into making this Japanese staple.” Kirkus Reviews
“A story that is as warm, rich and hearty as ramen itself!” Charlene Chua, illustrator of Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao
“A hearty serving of Japanese cuisine, resilience, and family fun.” Booklist
“Tanumihardja’s picture book debut encouragingly, practically shows how much hard work goes into the food’s preparation, leaving room for Hiro to try, try again, and at last put a personal spin on the traditional dish. Pate’s sumi ink, pencil, and digital illustrations reproduce packaged ramen’s colorful, cartoony designs, establishing a cheerfully chaotic tone across action-oriented panels.” Publishers Weekly
“Not only does Derek Desierto’s illustrations set the stage for the bright colors, textures, flowers, and patterns which influenced Jimmy throughout his life, but Patricia Tanumihardja’s lilting, lyrical text enticingly swoops us into Jimmy’s life and we can’t help but want to know more. This is a fun biography about a man who has made a difference to fashion, yes, but also a difference in the lives of many young designers. An honest look at some of the challenges of being an immigrant, it’s also a reminder to hold onto ones’ heritage and to fight for your dreams. With a light touch of humor, it’s a book that shoe-lovers and nonfiction fans can both enjoy.” – Maria Marshall, children’s book author and blogger
“Lui’s illustrations of whimsical fairies working together to make the treats will have readers licking their lips and wanting recipes to try at home. . . . Explanations of each featured specialty add to the overall lesson that while treats from around the world might all be different, they are equally delicious—just like how all members of a team are important. VERDICT A fun addition to holiday literature that incorporates the importance of teamwork and diversity.” School Library Journal
“Lui’s painterly digital renderings showcase the bakerinas, portrayed with various skin tones, hard at work, and while culinary details sometimes weigh down the telling, Tanumihardja nevertheless cooks up informative holiday fare.” Publishers Weekly