SEOUL FOOD

When extended family gathers, a biracial child must figure out a menu that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Hana is excited to learn that Grandpa and Grandma Williams, who are Black and live in South Carolina, and Harabeoji and Halmoni, who are from South Korea, will soon visit. Hana, who’s always wished both sets of grandparents could be closer, wants to plan a special dinner. What should they serve? Daddy suggests pizza or tacos. Mommy proposes something French. Each possibility is dismissed by Hana as “not special enough” or “too hard.” After Daddy encourages Hana not to give up, the child ponders. Hana remembers making a yummy pot of gumbo with Grandpa and Grandma Williams and cooking “sweet, sour, and spicy” kimchi-jigae with Harabeoji and Halmoni. Inspired, Hana starts cooking and even begins to dance as the pot bubbles and simmers with the various flavors mixing. All the grandparents arrive to a table set with condiments from both cuisines. Is it Korean food? Is it soul food? Hana proclaims, “It’s Seoul food!” As everyone raves about the kimchi gumbo and the grandparents make plans to visit one another, Hana reveals that love is the “ingredient that brings us all together.” Charming cartoon illustrations are layered with a warm palette and textured lines, while the delightfully child-centered story is sure to resonate with young readers.

A delectable celebration of a bicultural identity.