A review by ppalimar
Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

5.0

A standout clear winner on my bookshelf! I rarely give 5-star ratings, saving them for books that are not only beautifully and artfully written but also sear into your brain with lines that linger long after you’ve finished. "Crying in H Mart" is one such book. The masterful pairing of culture and food with themes of loss and identity creates a tapestry that is both poignant and relatable.

As a first-generation American, I found myself transported back to cherished memories of my grandmother in the kitchen—those quiet conversations left unsaid yet desperately needing acknowledgment. Zauner captures the moments where joy is overshadowed by grief, illustrating how food often becomes a substitute for words we struggle to express.

The sadness and love woven throughout this narrative are tangible in a way that few books achieve with such care and respect. I savored every moment of this journey and felt an ache when it ended, as if losing a dear friend or beloved supper club. This book is not just a read; it's an experience that resonates deeply. Every woman—and indeed every person—should read this incredible work!