Review Detail

Maia loves her birthday because that's when she knows she will get to eat the best food. It starts as soon as she wakes up as the scent of her mother's cooking tantalizes her to get her out of bed. Maia discovers that her mother is cooking Miyeok guk which is one of her favorites. Her mother explains the importance of eating this soup on her birthday and Maia can't wait to share it with her friends.

BIRTHDAY SOUP is an endearing children's picture book that celebrates tradition and the importance of bringing people together. Children will get to learn more about the Korean tradition behind this special birthday soup. There are even two different recipes so children can make their own Miyeok guk with the help of their parents. In addition, there is a glossary to teach the meaning of Korean words like Umma and Appa. The illustrations are simple with minor details, but are still cute and highlight the joy this soup brings.


Final Verdict: I would recommend this to birthday children who enjoy learning about other cultures and trying something new. It would also make a great addition to school libraries to teach how some cultures may do different things to celebrate birthdays, especially since birthdays are always an exciting topic for kids.