I have a confession to make. I save my favorite fortunes from fortune cookies. I can’t resist. They are often humorous, strange, and wise. Here are some examples:
So, I was excited to find a perfect picture book about fortune cookies and, since books often lead me on adventures, I was able to use it as inspiration for a field trip.
FORTUNE COOKIES FOR EVERYONE: The Surprising Story of the Tasty Treat We Love To Eat
- Written by: Mia Wenjen
- Illustrated by Colleen Kong-Savage
- Published by: Red Comet Press 2025
- ISBN: 978-1-63655-159-3
- Ages: 4-8
The story begins:
“The Chinese food is here!” Grandma Miyako called her grandchildren, Kenji and Keiko, down to dinner. “I ordered your favorites! Salt and pepper squid, garlic pea pods, and beef lo mein!”
After they finished eating, Grandma Miyako passed out the fortune cookies included in the bag.
Did I ever tell you that I knew the inventor of the fortune cookie?” she asked.
Brief Summary:
Since we often receive fortune cookies when we order Chinese food, most of us assume that fortune cookies came from Chine. It is actually more likely that they originated in Japan. In Fortune Cookies For Everyone, author Mia Wenjen spins a true cultural historical tale told in as a story told by a Japanese grandmother to her grandchildren. The origination of the cookie is shared but the story takes a serious turn when she tells of the forced internment of Japanese citizens during WWII. Chinese Americans took over restaurants, and the cookies became even more popular as soldiers discovered them in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Soon, both cities were arguing about which was the origin city and there was even a mock trial. The book ends with a heartwarming personal story about how the grandfather proposed with a fortune cookie that said to marry him!
Colleen Kong-Savages fascinating illustrations feature Japanese motifs using vibrant colors. The author and illustrator notes share the backstory, art information, and glossary. This is truly a special book for everyone who loves fortune cookies.
I discovered a small fortune cookie factory tucked away in old town Sacrament. Unfortunately, I went on a Friday, and they only make fortune cookies on Wednesdays. The baker did show me the cookie-making machine and gave me some fortunes. I plan to go back!
For more resources, visit this link on author Mia Wenjin’s website.
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