Niki Nakayama: A Chef's Tale in 13 Bites

Niki Nakayama: A Chef's Tale in 13 Bites
By Jamie Michalak
New York : Farrar Straus Giroux, 2021. Biography.

Niki Nakayama is a chef that has been awarded two Michelin stars during her career for her incredible food. She is specifically a kaiseki chef, which means that every dish she creates tells a story. Just like her food tells a story in 13 dishes at her restaurant, this picture book biography also tells a story, but in 13 bites. Niki grew up in Los Angeles but because her parents were born in Japan, they often had food that incorporated both cultures. As Niki grew up she always had a dream of becoming a chef but was told constantly that she wouldn't be able to. She adopted the saying, Kuyashii, which means, I'll show them, and she certainly did. Niki learned, grew, went to culinary school, traveled to Japan, and then opened her own restaurant, becoming the first female kaiseki chef in the world. 

This picture book biography is inspiring, well-written, and beautifully illustrated. It is perfect for elementary school-aged children who enjoy biographies or cooking. It teaches the reader about the art of kaiseki and how food can tell stories and create a wonderful journey for those who join in the feast. Niki's story is a great example of never letting others tell you what you can and cannot do. Niki demonstrates that hard work, determination, and passion can take you far when accomplishing your dreams.