Steeped in Stories Main Page

What is "Steeped in Stories?"

This page is a work in progress!

Are you ready for an exciting journey? Join us on an adventure with "Steeped in Stories"! Each week/month, we explore various aspects of bridging Eastern and Western culture, ranging from ancient history to tantalizing cuisine. So, grab a cup of tea (or perhaps some boba, if you're feeling fancy), and immerse yourself in enjoyable and insightful conversations about the fascinating fusion of East and West. We can't wait to have you join us!

Note: In May 2023, "Read Down the CCP" was rebranded to "Steeped in Stories" to allow for more broader discussion on stories includeing culture, history, politics, and more!

Books We Have Read

"Wild Swans" is a memoir that chronicles the lives of three generations of women in China, from the early 1900s to the late 20th century. Written by Jung Chang, the book provides a unique perspective on China's tumultuous history, including the Japanese invasion, the rise of communism, and the Cultural Revolution. Through the stories of her grandmother, mother, and herself, Chang explores the impact of these historical events on the lives of ordinary Chinese people.

"The Last Chinese Chef" is a novel that follows Maggie McElroy, a young American food writer who travels to Beijing to write an article on Chinese cuisine and meets Sam Liang, a talented American chef who is competing in a prestigious culinary competition during the Beijing Olympics by creating authentic Chinese food. As Maggie explores the world of Chinese cuisine with Sam, she begins to uncover new dimensions of both her late husband and herself.

"Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio" is a collection of supernatural stories written by Pu Songling during the late Qing Dynasty in China. The book is divided into two volumes and contains over 500 stories that explore themes of love, morality, and the supernatural.

"The Real Chinaman" is a memoir written by Chester Holcombe, an American journalist who lived in China during the late 19th century. The book provides a unique perspective on China during the waning years of the Qing Dynasty, a time of great political, social, and cultural change.