An empty kimchi fridge brings an extended family of Korean descent together to ferment delicious fun.
Mina has a dire need for kimchi stew, but her mother is so distracted playing video games that she can only suggest checking the kimchi refrigerator in the garage. Mina’s crucial discovery—“We’re all out!”—rallies Omma to text the aunties, tie her hair back, cinch that apron, pull on rubber gloves, and announce, “It’s kimjang time.” Grandparents, aunts, cousins, and neighbors quickly assemble with all the necessary ingredients to boil, split, soak, salt, peel, and slice their way to creating everyone’s “own favorite kimchi.” In between, Mina’s dad shows off his K-pop dance moves and brother Jungsu never puts down his phone (except to do the dishes) while the rest of the chefs chatter on. Mina initially struggles with wrapping her kimchi leaves just right, but Omma assures her that not-so-perfect efforts will still be delicious. Their work yields plenty of kimchi to restock many fridges. The next kimjang might seem far off, but “some things are worth waiting for.” Korean American Cho enhances her exuberantly entertaining text with thousands-of-years-old kimjang history; her author’s note mentions the global growth of kimchi consumption. Korean American Kang’s colorfully energetic spreads are an irresistible invitation to join the delectable party.
A multilayered feast for the senses—singing, boogie-ing, salivating to Korea’s national culinary treasure.

– Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW