Crying in h mart by Michelle Zauner

Crying in H Mart by Michelle Zauner

You could feel the pain of her mother’s passing through every mouthful of her words.

Rating: 8/10

Genre: Non Fiction (Memoir)

Book Summary:

This book covers Michelle’s relationship with her mother, who died from cancer. She is a Korean-American discussing challenges she’s faced as many mixed heritage/3rd culture kids go through. She is connected with her Korean culture through food, which unlocks rick memories for her as she grieves her mother’s passing.

Favourite Qoutes:

“In Eugene, I was one of just a few mixed-race kids at my school and most people thought of me as Asian. I felt awkward and undesirable, and no one ever complimented my appearance. In Soel, most Koreans assumed I was Caucasian…” “…suddenly, my ‘exotic’ look was something to be celebrated”

Would I read this book again?: Yes

Would I recommend this book?: Yes

First Impressions: Sad, Relatable, Funny

Final thoughts: I became very reflective on relationships I have particularly with my family. I cried as soon as I finished the book and just wanted to hug my mum. I thought about what things keep me connected to my culture as food did for Michelle. Mine was fashion.

Key Takeaways: People are flawed and everyone is doing the best they can. Despite Michelle's mother often appearing abusive, you sense the heavy burden of ancestral trauma affecting Michelle. Eventually, it becomes evident that this behavior was her mother's attempt to express love and care for Michelle. I love the way food connected Michelle to her mother. You could feel the pain of her mother’s passing through every mouthful of her words. Even-though her mother was portrayed as a villain many times she was able to pass down recipes and celebrate Korean food with her daughter, that will forever connect them across worlds. Absolutely adored this book.