Reviews

Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal

berkls2's review against another edition

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

sumsunalli's review against another edition

5.0

I love love love Stradal’s writing style. He did such a good job of introducing characters, giving them their own voice, and then intertwining them so they’re all connected in some respect. My Minnesota heart is so happy.

gerikrempa1's review against another edition

emotional funny informative inspiring lighthearted relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This was so good so charming takes place in Midwest mainly Minnesota. Foodies abound and there’s even recipes. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Abandonment

Moderate: Addiction and Death of parent

Minor: Animal death and Cancer

winemakerssister's review against another edition

4.0

The quirky and interesting story of chef Eva Thorvald, told mostly through the POVs of the people around her. I enjoyed all the Midwest references but found it a little tricky to keep track of all the characters.

kindredkelsey's review against another edition

hopeful inspiring mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? N/A

3.75

melindamaureen's review against another edition

informative relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

chiliramon's review against another edition

3.0

Charmed by the quick peeks into Midwestern palates and hearts. But just as I was getting to see each character's facets, I was plucked from the scene and plopped into a different kitchen.

Still really enjoyed this feel-good, deliciously warm read that feeds into the idea that where you're from — applies to people and produce — is carried within you, affecting your tastes and changing you forever.

clariseng's review against another edition

4.0

This book reminds me of “Olive Kitteridge” in a wonderful, wonderful way— filled with interesting characters and life stories, all brought together by a disarmingly charming main character (a habanero pepper virtuoso, and owner of the “most sophisticated palate”). Even better because it’s filled with lots of delicious food. Reading this book has been such a treat. ♥️

jillos1's review against another edition

adventurous challenging emotional funny inspiring reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

kimwin's review against another edition

adventurous lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0