A family of Korean descent creates memories centered on a birthday tradition.Birthday girl Maia, clad in her purple bunny pajamas, runs down to greet her mother. Her excitement grows when she learns that Umma is cooking something special: miyeok guk, or birthday soup. The dialogue-heavy narrative expounds on the dish's origins. Packed with nutrients, this seaweed soup is typically served to new mothers; Korean people traditionally eat the dish on their birthdays to honor their mothers. As Maia's father, grandmother, and older brother chime in with their own memories and reactions, everyone pitches in to help cook. Kim's deft use of bright blended colors and textures creates joyful scenes of Maia preparing the ingredients with her family. Portrayed with oversize round heads, they cut endearing figures in the cartoonish art. After reveling in the legacy and flavors of the soup, Maia decides to serve it to her friends at her party. Several aspects of Maia's Korean heritage are represented: Her grandmother wears a hanbok, her relatives bring silk envelopes containing birthday money, and japchae and kimchi are served alongside pizza and tacos-and, of course, miyeok guk. Maia and her parents smile as her friends appreciate the soup-the perfect party! Maia's friends are racially diverse. The book wraps up with two recipes for miyeok guk, including one from the author's husband, restaurateur and TV personality David Chang.A celebratory tale embracing culture, identity, and of course food. (glossary, author's note) (Picture book. 5-8)

PreS-Gr 2 —It's Maia's birthday, and she can't wait to celebrate! In the kitchen she is greeted by the delicious smell of her mother making miyeok guk, Korean for birthday soup. Maia and her family all pitch in to make this special soup while talking about its significance. Maia takes a bite and she feels connected to her family, "Not only her mother, but all the mothers going back as far as she can imagine." Chang's writing is full of sweetness and care. As she shares in her author's note, the story is inspired by her own experiences as a Korean American child. Kim's illustrations are created with a rainbow color palette reflecting the mood of celebration. Notable pages include moments that combine the present with gentle memories of the past. Back matter features a glossary, and miyeok guk recipes from the author's mother and Korean American chef David Chang. VERDICT Chang and Kim have created a beautiful work celebrating the Korean tradition of making birthday soup while showcasing the resonating power of food to facilitate deep connection.—Sarah Pousty