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A review by kelseymn18
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal
lighthearted
medium-paced
3.5
The book follows the life of famous chef Eva, but told through vignettes from others who interacted with and influenced her. Each chapter introduces a new character and POV, and they all weave together to tell Eva's story. While I appreciated the unique structure, it made it hard to truly connect to the story. Just when I would start to get invested in a character and their storyline, the chapter would end and I'd have to start over with someone new.
I enjoyed the messy family dynamics and exploring how different moments can impact our lives, from big events to short interactions. I loved the Minnesota settings and references. Lutefisk, Blue Ribbon baking contests, county fairs and the State Fair, church ladies... I laughed out loud many times. The author did a fantastic job portraying Minnesota culture, in a way that didn't feel over the top or mocking. However, some of the audiobook narrations, mostly in the beginning, were downright cruel by using the stereotypical Minnesotan accent and were hard to listen to.
I enjoyed the messy family dynamics and exploring how different moments can impact our lives, from big events to short interactions. I loved the Minnesota settings and references. Lutefisk, Blue Ribbon baking contests, county fairs and the State Fair, church ladies... I laughed out loud many times. The author did a fantastic job portraying Minnesota culture, in a way that didn't feel over the top or mocking. However, some of the audiobook narrations, mostly in the beginning, were downright cruel by using the stereotypical Minnesotan accent and were hard to listen to.