If you think McDonald's is the most ubiquitous restaurant experience in America, consider that there are more Chinese restaurants in America than McDonalds, Burger Kings, and Wendys combined. New York Times reporter and Chinese-American (or American-born Chinese). In her search, Jennifer 8 Lee traces the history of Chinese-American experience through the lens of the food. In a compelling blend of sociology and history, Jenny Lee exposes the indentured servitude Chinese restaurants expect from illegal immigrant chefs, investigates the relationship between Jews and Chinese food, and weaves a personal narrative about her own relationship with Chinese food. The Fortune Cookie Chronicles speaks to the immigrant experience as a whole, and the way it has shaped our country.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.5 / 5.0
Substance-Free:
Those who want a serious, thoughtful look at Chinese food and what it means to Chinese and other cultures should look elsewhere; Jennifer 8. Lee's book is nothing but a series of shallow, (sometimes) mildly amusing extended anecdotes.
Ms. Lee's claim that "(chop suey) is still found in some urban Chinese takeouts and in scattered restaurants around the country" is patently false. From Bloomington, Indiana to Hannibal, Missouri to Austin, Texas, I've never been to a Chinese restaurant that didn't... more info
An insightful and fun read:
Jennifer Lee's "The Fortune Cookie Chronicles: Adventures in the World of Chinese Food" is a delightful read that provides an interesting perspective of American Chinese food. The author covers the origins of Chinese food in the American society, and how it has evolved. She also touched on various aspects of Chinese restaurants in the U.S. - from Chinese delivery guys to the origin of fortune cookies. This was a insightful read as Lee was very comprehensive in her research. She covered topics such as... more info
Delighfful and interesting sociological study:
I found this book an interesting glimpse into the world of the USA Chinese restaurants industry, it's workers, and a bit of it's history, as Jennifer went on the hunt for the origin of the fortune cookie. It was an easy, informative, read.
Gave it three stars because it is educating:
I really looked forward to reading this for so many reasons. First, I am of Chinese descent and always wondered about the differences between the food my family ate and what many local restaurants served. Second, Chinese history including immigration stories fascinate me. Third, the sample I downloaded engaged me immediately (I have a kindle). Last, the overwhelming good reviews. While it started out great, I'm sitting here trying to reconcile myself to the fact that I can't bring myself to finish the... more info
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