A review by hickorynut
Off Menu by Oliver Gerlach

hopeful inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Soup was found as an infant and raised by a collection of kitchen staff, and now is 17 seeking her next steps in the world. She realizes that the res aurant owner is not what he had seemed, and that his corruption extended beyond the kitchen into manipulating the whole town. She challenges him to a baking competition, hoping to free the town from his grasp, and finds the evidence and support she needs to expose him. Soup pulls together the cooking community to learn from each other and ultimately it is what encourages her to create a unique and fascinating dish for the competition.

I really enjoyed this with its delightful cast of diverse characters and a divided community that comes together for the betterment of all. The artwork was beautiful and emotive, and I would absolutely love additional books set in this world.