A comic book format cookbook with a nicely drawn folktale and recipe for each food. Storytelling and food is inherently tied together when it comes to appreciating one’s culture, and this book ties it all together nicely. Each step in the recipe is illustrated - what a labor of love!

This is a light and fun read for anyone who is interested in Chinese cooking or learn about the meaning behind some interesting food names, and the recipes seem delicious and approachable too. The author draws from her memories of food and her Nai Nai and family and growing up in Wuhan. I especially like the tea egg recipe and story - it’s simple and sweet!

Special thanks to Chronicle Books and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest, independent review.

Ever thought a cookbook could be your next graphic novel obsession? Well, brace yourself, because it soon will be, on precisely March 4th — its release date. This isn't just for those with an interest in Chinese cuisine and culture; if you love cooking or are enchanted by graphic novels, this book is destined to become your new best friend.

I've explored countless cookbooks, but this one stands out as a top contender. It's not merely in my top 10; it's the most vibrant, quirky, and engaging cookbook I've ever come across. The idea of a graphic novel cookbook aimed at adults is nothing short of genius. You don't have to plan on cooking to enjoy this; it's a sheer delight to read, much like flipping through a captivating comic book.

The recipes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Imagine preparing Mango and Lobster Spring Rolls or perfecting Tea Eggs and Moon Cakes. The dish names alone are a source of amusement read: "Ignored by Doggy Buns," "Ants Climbing a Tree," "Buddha Jumps Over the Wall," and who wouldn’t love "Old Pockmarked Lady’s Mapo Tofu?”

For parents eager to spark culinary interest in their children, this book is a treasure. The illustrations aren't just charming; they're mesmerizing, transforming each page into a visual banquet. It doesn't just inform; it captivates, enriching your knowledge with every page turn. On a word — FABULOUS!

Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This should be the future of cookbooks! It is engaging, informative, and funny, especially for noncooking individuals. What a delight! This should be developed into a short anime as soon as possible. Thanks to Netgalley for giving me a review copy.

A visually appealing and informative cookbook; makes for an enjoyable read even if one does not intend to make the recipes. The author skillfully blends Chinese legend, personal family history, and the history of China itself to explain the names and origin of a variety of classic Chinese dishes. The art style is colorful and stylized without feeling overly cartoon-y. Would definitely appeal to teen readers, though certainly a fun read for adults as well.

This was such a fun book to read. I learned so much but was so delighted by the artwork to remember I was reading a cookbook.

This book is different from a typical cookbooks in that all the pictures are illustrated as well as the story of how the dish got its name. Between the graphic novel style of narrative and the personal connection the author brings to many of the recipes, this is a cookbook that really feels personal and heartwarming.

I know I have many people on my gift list that will be getting a copy for the next gift holiday.

This is a fantastic cookbook! Each dish comes with a little story or background, allowing you to learn about the history of the food before diving into the recipe. It’s such a fun way to not only learn how to cook but also gain a deeper appreciation for the dishes and their cultural significance.

The art in this book is absolutely beautiful—it complements the stories perfectly and makes the food look incredibly delicious. A must-have for anyone who loves cooking and storytelling combined!

Thanks to netgalley for the advanced reader's copy of this book.

What an absolute delight this book was! The author's recollections of the stories told to them by their family members about the different dishes along with simple recipes with ingredients and instructions made this book both enjoyable and easy to read. The illustrations are fun and cheerful and I would absolutely recommend this book.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and Other Curiously Named Classic Chinese Dishes.

What a fun cookbook! I've never read a comic cookbook before but this was right up my alley since I also love to eat and learning historical facts.

The author introduces recipes from her childhood, the heartwarming ones her grandmother made for her as a child and we're lucky she's shared them with readers.

The illustrations of the step-by-step instructions are useful, as well as the visual storytelling of the legends and stories behind how the dishes got their names amusing are fun to read!

The author includes a full meal of dishes including appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

Some of them are straight forward to make and some are more labor intensive but they're worth it!

My only caveat is I wished there was a real photo of the final dish so I know what it looks like. I eat with my eyes, too!

Buddha Jumps Over the Wall will make a great gift for nearly everyone; children and adults learning to cook classic Chinese dishes, people interested in the history of cooking, foodies and lovers of comics and manga.

This will really appeal to a wide range of ages and people!

Thank you Netgalley, Chronicle Books, and Ying Chang Compestine for sending me this advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is a really fun cookbook! The stories were great, and the recipes were authentic. The instructions were easy to follow with nicely drawn pictures to show the steps. The artwork was bright and cheerful too.

Some of the ingredients could be harder to find if you don't live near an Asian grocery store, but most of them can be bought online.


My only complaint is that the text in the comics, and the cooking directions were incredibly difficult to read because of the blurred font in the eARC version I received. I hope this is corrected in the final version.