I am thrilled to finally share some very exciting news: I wrote a cookbook.
Just over two years ago I signed a contract with William Morrow, an imprint of HarperCollins, to write and photograph a family cookbook. At the time I planned to announce the book deal publicly but held off because the publication date felt so far away. Several author friends warned me that creating a cookbook can be like pregnancy—you gain a few pounds, experience sleepless nights, labor a lot, but ultimately love every part of it. They were right.
Midway through the project our family suffered a devastating loss when my dad was suddenly killed after being struck by a car. For months I focused on helping my mom close her business and move out of our childhood home into ours. In the months that followed I struggled to work on the cookbook or the blog; I was exhausted and doing my best to care for everyone around me.
It was a confusing, painful season. My mom—my wonderful mom—sat me down for a heartfelt talk. I remember crying from how overwhelmed I felt, and how she spoke in a mixture of Korean and English: with God’s help, we would finish the book. For my dad’s sake, she was determined to help me meet deadlines. She watched Eli when I needed, stepped in as my photography assistant when I needed an extra hand, and often insisted on cleaning the kitchen after shoots. She has been my angel and my hero.
It’s been nearly a year since I turned in the manuscript. I remember that day clearly—I cried tears of joy at finishing and tears of grief from an emotional year. I poured everything I had into this book, and now I can finally share it with you.
The cookbook is organized around everyday life events: birthday parties, Mother’s Day, potlucks, game day, Christmas morning, and other moments that matter. The recipes are arranged to inspire you to capture life as it happens with memorable, delicious food. Written in an approachable voice, the recipes are fun and straightforward, with practical tips to guide you every step of the way.
Most recipes are new and have never been published on Savory Sweet Life—I saved my best for this book. I’ve also included some of the site’s most popular recipes so you’ll find familiar favorites alongside fresh ideas.
All of the photographs except one were taken by me. I’ve always thought of Savory Sweet Life as a photo-driven food blog, and the images in this cookbook reflect that—every recipe has a photo, and many include step-by-step images and captions to guide you. It’s a visual feast designed to make cooking approachable and enjoyable.
Last week I received a proof of the book in a big yellow envelope from New York City. Seeing the physical proof was surreal—this was really happening. I even realized I referenced “Galaga” twice in the book, which reflects the playful, personal voice you’ll find in the pages. The tone is laced with humor and gives you a glimpse of the dorky side of me that friends and family know well. Yes, I am the Galaga Queen.
Earlier today I submitted my final edits. It truly is finished. To celebrate, my husband and I shared a simple Grapefruit Vodka cocktail—1 ounce each of grapefruit juice, grapefruit vodka, and lemon-lime soda—a small toast to a big milestone.
The book will be released June 5, 2012, and is available for pre-order through major booksellers. As the publication date approaches I’ll share details about the book tour and other events.
Finally, thank you. So many of you have walked alongside me since my dad died—your emails, comments, and friendship sustained me through one of the hardest seasons of grief. I’m grateful to be able to share what feels like one of the happiest seasons of my life with you. Your support means the world to me.
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