The Have a Good Day Cafe
Review
By School Library Journal
Mike loves his grandma dearly, but he’s saddened by her constant yearning for her homeland of Korea. Having only arrived in America recently, she is also tired of sitting alone in the apartment all day. Despite the protests of her son, she joins the family as they set up a food cart on a busy park corner. Business starts slowing down when competition arrives also selling pizza and hot dogs, so quick-witted Mike comes up with a plan to serve Korean dishes instead of the usual American fare. He employs Grandma as his partner in this new venture, and by the end of the next day, their newly dubbed “Have a Good Day Cafe†cart proves a success. Allowing readers an understanding of the world of elderly immigrants, the Parks tell a gentle tale of how people can feel at home when they are able to contribute something to their family. Children will also readily recognize the loving and realistic relationship between a grandmother and her grandson. Soft pastel illustrations nicely complement this simple story. A useful glossary of Korean foods is included. An intelligent, thoughtful tale.
