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Documents the author's research into the history of Chinese food as obtained while traveling throughout the country and the world, in an account during which she explored the role of immigration and assimilation on traditional cuisine, investigated a debate over the true inventor of chop suey, and discovered the tradition behind trapezoidal take-out containers. Reprint.
FEATURED ON TED.com and The Colbert Report.
If you think McDonald's is the most ubiquitous restaurant experience in America, consider that there are more Chinese restaurants in America than McDonalds, Burger Kings, and Wendy's combined. Former New York Times reporter and Chinese-American (or American-born Chinese). In her search, Jennifer 8 Lee traces the history of Chinese-American experience through the lens of the food. In a compelling blend of sociology and history, Jenny Lee exposes the indentured servitude Chinese restaurants expect from illegal immigrant chefs, investigates the relationship between Jews and Chinese food, and weaves a personal narrative about her own relationship with Chinese food. The Fortune Cookie Chronicles speaks to the immigrant experience as a whole, and the way it has shaped our country.
