44 pages • 1 hour read
Kitchens of the Great Midwest
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Minnesota • 2000s
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal follows Eva Thorvald, a girl with an extraordinary palate who becomes a renowned chef. Structured around interconnected short stories, each chapter highlights different characters and aspects of Eva's culinary journey, rooted in Midwestern traditions. Eva's narrative intertwines familial bonds, personal struggles, and evolving food culture over 30 years. The book addresses topics such as substance abuse, alcohol addiction, and sexual assault.
Bittersweet
Humorous
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal has been praised for its engaging storytelling and vivid characters. Readers love the unique structure, blending recipes with the narrative. However, some critics feel the character development could be deeper. Overall, Stradal's debut is a flavorful and heartwarming journey through food and family, despite minor flaws.
Who Should Read Kitchens of the Great Midwest?
Readers who enjoyed The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin or Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout, and those fascinated by culinary arts and Midwestern life, will find J. Ryan Stradal's Kitchens of the Great Midwest captivating. This novel weaves food, family, and regional culture into a heartwarming, witty narrative.
320
Novel • Fiction
Minnesota • 2000s
2015
Adult
18+ years
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