Review: Ramen for Everyone

Written by Patricia Tanumihardja

Illustrated by Shiho Pate

Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2023. Picture Book.

Hiro has grown up watching his dad make the perfect ramen. When he turns seven, he feels old enough to make perfect ramen on his own. He tries so hard to make the broth and noodles just like his dad does, but it doesn't exactly work out. Hiro finds a way to still make the ramen delicious and special for each member of his family.

This book is so fun to read and see Hiro progress from being frustrated to having a growth mindset. Many of the ramen making sequences include onomatopoeia words like thwack, thump, and bump that make it engaging to read aloud. The illustrations have a hint of anime style, and they use panels to show the process of making perfect ramen. The amazing texture of each of the ramen ingredients will make your mouth water. This book will definitely cause your stomach to grumble with hunger.

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