in a series of episodic stories told by her father, her first boyfriend, a jealous rival, her cousin, etc etc - people who knew her well and people who knew her briefly, we watch her progress from an orphaned baby to a master chef, successful and bold. like John's Wife and The Life and Death of Sophie Stark, we learn about the life of one character, here eva thorvald, through the eyes of the people who knew her at various stages in her life. This is a book that uses that kooky structure i so enjoy when it's done right. It marks the entry of a brilliant new talent. By turns quirky, hilarious, and vividly sensory, Kitchens of the Great Midwest is an unexpected mother-daughter story about the bittersweet nature of life-its missed opportunities and its joyful surprises. Ryan Stradal's startlingly original debut tells the story of a single dish and character, at once capturing the zeitgeist of the Midwest, the rise of foodie culture, and delving into the ways food creates community and a sense of identity. From Scandinavian lutefisk to hydroponic chocolate habaneros, each ingredient represents one part of Eva's journey as she becomes the star chef behind a legendary and secretive pop-up supper club, culminating in an opulent and emotional feast that's a testament to her spirit and resilience.Įach chapter in J. As Eva grows, she finds her solace and salvation in the flavors of her native Minnesota. He's determined to pass on his love of food to his daughter-starting with puréed pork shoulder. When Lars Thorvald's wife, Cynthia, falls in love with wine-and a dashing sommelier-he's left to raise their baby, Eva, on his own.

Kitchens of the great midwest