Secrets of The Red Lantern is more than just a book with Vietnamese recipes: a big part of the book is the history of the family of author Pauline Nguyen, illustrated with beautiful pictures. Her parents fled from war-torn Vietnam in the 70's. Because their boat was good and the flee was prepared well, they weren't let in as refugees in Malaysia. They sailed to Thailand, this time with more luck, and after a few years of waiting, they became Australian citizens, where with hard work, here parents set up a very succesful business.
The family business is still going on in The Red Lantern in Sydney. The part of the Nguyen's family history is written honestly and is just stunning and captivating to read, not often we read such an insight story of what it means to flee your country and how to build up a new life in a new country. Pauline Nguyen is awarded for this book, and I really think she deserved this, this is by far one of the most impressing stories I have ever read. The Vietnamese recipes from The Red Lantern are just amazing. I think there is just a recipe for every taste in this book, even if you haven't tried Vietnamese food ever. I already made the Cha Gio,(spring rolls) and they where just delicious!
Secrets of The Red Lantern is just a book not to miss!
