CHOPSTICKS ARE

In Ward’s able hands, the humble chopstick becomes a window into culture, tradition, and quotidian joys.

Opening with the statement that “chopsticks are a tool,” the playful text blossoms into an energetic celebration of the many roles these utensils play—as essential kitchen helpers for stirring and swirling, as nimble extensions of the hand for picking up everything from natto to cheese puffs, and as reminders of past meals with loved ones. With its global perspective, the book makes clear that chopsticks have traveled across continents with families, anchoring meals and customs “from China to Japan, Korea, and Cambodia. From Vietnam to Singapore, Malaysia to Taiwan, and around the world.” References to culturally specific rituals where chopsticks are used—for instance, Okuizome, observed in Japan to mark a baby’s first meal—demonstrate how a familiar object can carry deeper meaning. Scurfield’s illustrations are rich, colorful, and action-oriented, each spread reflecting a different setting through foods, clothing, and table arrangements and working seamlessly with the text to emphasize the diversity of chopstick styles—in length, shape, and design. Robust backmatter exploring chopsticks’ origins, material, and etiquette enhances the book educational value.

A warm, informative, and exuberant ode to an everyday utensil and the cultures that cherish it.