I hesitate to read novels that are set in places and situations I know because I’ve been disappointed so often by inaccuracies. So, as a person who lives in the great midwest, has owned a Honda Accord, sometimes parks in the minister’s spot, and is upset when the Girl Scouts leave the lights on, I was skeptical about this book – despite its enthusiastic reviews. However, I’m glad I read it because Stradal does something wonderful: he writes insightfully, without stereotypes or sneers. He gives us characters who aren’t saints or rubes. Instead, they’re complex, surprising, flawed people worth cheering for.
Stradal, J. Ryan. Kitchens of the Great Midwest. Penguin, 2015, p. 213.