“Crying in H Mart” is a memoir by Michelle Zauner, telling the author’s story of growing up as an Asian American woman. The book explores themes of family, identity, and cultural assimilation, with particular focus on the author’s experiences shopping at her local Korean supermarket – H Mart. Through poignant storytelling and vibrant prose, Zauner brings readers into her world and reveals the depth of human experience within it. “Crying in H Mart” is a powerful exploration of what it means to be part of a diaspora community, and will leave readers feeling deeply connected to the author’s journey.” The author, Michelle Zauner, is Korean American.
For who is this book for ?
this book is for asian americans, and people who are interested in other cultures. The author writes about her experiences growing up with a korean background, and how she felt growing up around a predominately white town. She also focuses on the role of H mart- where many koreans go to shop- in relation to her own life and cultural identity. I would recommend this book because it’s an interesting look into another culture,specifically within the perspective of someone who has lived it firsthand.
Pros :
- The author writes powerfully about her experiences as a Korean American woman and the diaspora community.
- The book is brutally honest and will leave readers feeling deeply connected to the author’s journey.
- It is a powerful exploration of what it means to be part of a diaspora community.
Cons :
- The author could have gone more in-depth about her childhood and experiences.
- The book is short, so some readers might feel like they didn’t get enough information.
- Some readers might not be interested in memoirs or books about Asian American culture.
Learn more about the author
Michelle Zauner is the author of the poetry collection “Deadass” and the memoir “Crying in H Mart.” She was born in Seoul, South Korea, and raised by immigrant parents in Philadelphia. After attending Brown University, she moved to Beijing, China, where she worked as a journalist for six years. She is now based in Portland, Oregon.
Reader Reviews
“Crying in H Mart is a beautifully written and powerful memoir about family, identity, and cultural assimilation. Michelle Zauner brings readers into her world with honesty and humor,revealing the depth of human experience within it. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand what it means to be part of a diaspora community.”
“If you are of any Asian descent at all, or just interested in cultural backgrounds and experiences,… this book is a must-read.”
“Trigger warning: This book deals with some tough topics like mental illness, family dynamics, and cultural assimilation. That being said, it is an incredibly powerful read. I related to Michelle on so many levels and felt like she was my friend by the end of the memoir. Her writing is beautiful and her story needs to be heard.”
“Michelle Zauner’s wonderful Crying in H Mart is a memoir of growing up as an Asian American woman. The book explores themes of family, identity, and cultural assimilation with particular focus on the author’s experiences shopping at her local Korean supermarket – H Mart. Through poignant storytelling and vibrant prose, Zauner brings readers into her world and reveals the depth of human experience within it.”
