"Blue bowls mean afternoon tea with
aunties, and the fruit-filled cakes they
bring from the bakery that are "not
too sweet." (Mango is his favorite!)"
too sweet." (Mango is his favorite!)"
Food is an important part of Max's family life. His mom and dad love to cook together; Max appreciates all the delicious smells that emanate from the kitchen day after day. When he smells garlic, basil, and melting cheese, he knows they are having his favorite meal: spaghetti and meatballs. Vanilla cake with sprinkles is dessert, and Max hopes it will be part of his upcoming birthday celebration.
The following day he comes home to smell ginger, tomatoes, and sesame. It's his sister's favorite stir-fry. Max and Ida set the table with blue bowls like the ones his grandparents have at their house. Blue bowls mean they will be eating traditional Chinese fare at mealtime. Max loves the Cantonese food that his family eats; he also likes french fries, tacos, and pizza.
Their favorite place when they eat away from home is Pearl Garden, which reminds his parents of the home they left, and fills their need for traditional tastes. There are times when Max wishes for dessert bowls filled with ice cream rather than red bean soup. For his birthday, Max is hoping to go to Taste of Rome; instead, they are going to his grandparent's house. He's not likely to have spaghetti there. It is a family feast, with special dishes brought to the celebration by family members. The blue bowls are there as a reminder of Hong Kong. The table is filled with familiar dishes ... and Max's favorite Italian fare!
The piece de resistance? Why, a mango cake of course ... with vanilla frosting and sprinkles!
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