Book Review: The Art of Sushi

Franckie Alarcon, The Art of Sushi. New York: NBM, 2021. ISBN: 9781681122854.

 

Genre: graphic novels and comics

Subgenre: food, Japan, travel

Format: e-book galley

Source: NetGalley 

 

I can say right away this is one of the nicest books I have read this year so far. The author travels from France to Japan to learn all he can about sushi. Along the way not only do we learn about sushi, but we also learn about elements of sushi such as the fish and the rice as well as those who make it and even related topics like sake and soy sauce. The author takes us on a journey along with his friends and gives us an in-depth look at Japanese culture as well as sushi. 

 

Our story starts with the author's initial attempts at making sushi, which are not very successful. From there, he embarks on his journey to learn about sushi and research it for this graphic novel. The story reads a bit like a food travel show with a bit of travelogue of Japan. On the journey we meet chefs, fishermen, sake and soy sauce makers, and we go from high end sushi for elites to Kaiten sushi chains for the common folk. 

 

The author tells an interesting and entertaining story. There is a lot of attention to detail. This is an educational book, but it is also a pleasure to read. The author weaves the various stories together so they flow without effort, easily transitioning from one topic to the next. Explanations of various processes are clear and accessible. The text is well written and suitable for general readers. 

 

The art is simple in a black and white style. However, food illustrations and diagrams are in color and drawn in a detailed and realistic style. At times you feel like you can reach in and grab a piece of sushi. The rest of the art is basic, but it works nicely with the text. This is a graphic novel that is a pleasure to look at as well as read. 

 

In addition, the book includes a set of recipes at the end for readers to try out. The book also includes a list of addresses and other locations from the story and/or relevant to the story. 

 

Overall, this is a fantastic book for all ages. This is a must have for libraries with graphic novel collections. It is one I would gladly buy for my library, and I can say I would buy a copy for my personal collection. This book can inspire folks to learn more and explore the world of sushi. Very well done. 

 

5 out of 5 stars. 

 

This book qualifies for the following 2022 Reading Challenge: