Chop Suey Nation

by Ann Hui
Chop Suey Nation cover
Good Books rating 4.5
History
Technical:
  • ID: 2024
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781771622226
  • Publisher: Douglas & McIntyre
  • Published: 2019-02-02
  • Reviews: 3

Chop Suey Nation takes readers on a culinary and cultural journey through Canada, exploring the history and present-day vibrancy of small-town Chinese restaurants. Author Ann Hui delves into the stories behind these establishments, highlighting their role in shaping local communities and the unique blend of traditions they represent. Beyond the food, the book offers a rich tapestry of personal narratives and historical insights that celebrate the diversity and resilience of these culinary landmarks. From the coastal towns of British Columbia to the remote islands of Newfoundland, Chop Suey Nation reveals how these restaurants have become integral parts of Canadian culture. The book combines engaging storytelling with a deep appreciation for the cultural exchange that occurs in these humble eateries, making it a must-read for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Reviews
Avocado Diaries · Avocado Diaries · 2021-06-05
remarkable 4.75

The book is praised for its well-written and engaging narrative that deserves a standing ovation. It is seen as a remarkable accomplishment in exploring the evolution of Chinese food in Canada.

The reviewer from Avocado Diaries was thoroughly impressed with Chop Suey Nation, calling it an incredible accomplishment. They highlighted the book's engaging narrative and well-written content, deserving of a standing ovation. The reviewer appreciated how Hui delved into the history and evolution of Chinese food in Canada, making it a fascinating read. The personal and historical elements combined to create a rich tapestry that celebrates the creativity and resilience of Chinese immigrants.

Quick quotes

    Chop Suey Nation was an incredible accomplishment and Ann Hui deserves a standing ovation for this book.

    It was really well-written and engaging, making it a pleasure to read.

    Hui's exploration of the history and evolution of Chinese food in Canada is both fascinating and insightful.

BC Food History · 2020-05-17
compelling 4.25

The book is celebrated for its portrayal of Chinese-Canadian cuisine as a testament to creativity and perseverance. It offers an eye-opening perspective on the cultural significance of Chinese food in Canada.

The reviewer from BC Food History found Chop Suey Nation to be a compelling exploration of Chinese-Canadian cuisine. They appreciated how the book highlighted the creativity and perseverance of Chinese immigrants, portraying their culinary contributions as a testament to their resilience. The reviewer noted that the book offers an eye-opening perspective on the cultural significance of Chinese food in Canada, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in food history and cultural studies.

Quick quotes

    Ann Hui concluded that 'Chinese Canadian' wasn't 'fake cuisine'. It was really a 'testament to creativity, perseverance, and resourcefulness'.

    The book offers an eye-opening perspective on the cultural significance of Chinese food in Canada.

    Hui's research and storytelling bring to light the often overlooked history of Chinese immigrants and their culinary contributions.

Karissa Reads Books · Karissa · 2019-05-17
heartfelt 4.50

The personal stories, especially of the author's father, are compelling and told with empathy. The exploration of Chinese-Canadian culinary history is both engaging and insightful.

Karissa found the book to be a heartfelt exploration of Chinese-Canadian culinary history. She particularly enjoyed the personal stories, especially those about the author's father, which were told with a deep sense of empathy and interest. The book weaves together family history with broader cultural narratives, making it both a personal and historical journey. Karissa appreciated the way Hui highlighted the creativity and perseverance of Chinese immigrants in shaping Canadian cuisine, making the book both educational and emotionally resonant.

Quick quotes

    I most enjoyed Hui's re-telling of her father's history as here her storytelling shines with empathy and interest.

    When she details the stories of other Chinese restaurant owners, it's clear how much research and care went into this book.

    Hui's writing is engaging and her passion for the subject matter is evident throughout.

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