SEOUL FOOD

Anire Kim Amoda brings youthful enthusiasm to her portrayal of a biracial girl named Hana and her culinary challenge. Grandma and Grandpa Williams are from South Carolina, and cherish gumbo, while Halmoni (Grandmother) and Harabeoji (Grandfather) are from South Korea, and savor kimchi. What can young Hana cook to please everyone's palate? Amoda's light, engaging voice brings out Hana's thoughtfulness and eagerness in bridging the diverse cuisines. Budding foodies may be especially impressed by Amoda's smooth pronunciation of the glossary of global food terms and Hana's creative recipe for Korean gumbo. Amoda's delightful performance also conveys the book's heartwarming message: The love and care behind a meal outweigh the importance of the dish itself. M.F. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2024]