Not My Bowl of Rice

by E.R. Escober

Not My Bowl of Rice is a coined idiom that has the same flavor as Not My Cup Of Tea. (e.g. To be honest, cooking's not really my bowl of rice.) It is also the title of this novel about a young Filipina immigrant's life in America. What is it to be a Filipina woman, daughter, friend, lover and wife in America? The answers, oftentimes complex and startling are told in narration by the main character Ligaya de Guzman. She has a penchant for cooking and her story is peppered with tidbits about Filipino and other international dishes. In fact, every chapter is titled after a dish and carries its complete recipe as well. Throughout the novel, these dishes help move the story smoothly, dramatically, deliciously.

Although it features a Filipina protagonist, Not My Bowl Of Rice reflects the story of each and every one who has come to this country in search of the proverbial milk and honey. Not My Bowl of Rice is so witty and tasty, it should come with a warning not to read if you are hungry.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 2002

Reviews

[Helga · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a very good example of how being an effective ad copywriter does not automatically flow into a talent for literary writing. Not very well written in my opinion -- I found the form and language lacking in depth -- but at least, one of the few attempts at writing about the cultural adjustment a Filipino faces in migrating to the United States. If only for the effort, I must encourage more.

[Aldric · Rating 1 out of 5]

The way the Escober takes pains to explain every single Tagalog word (even transliterating putang ina mo), belief, and pop culture reference is taxing. I prefer Junot Díaz’s Spanglish approach: the words and culture ought to speak for themselves. It’s one way that Escober’s writing, though good-intentioned, reeks of insincerity. Interesting shtick, having each chapter an introduction to a Filipino recipe. And I will say that sharing the Filipino immigrant experience is important work. But overall, Not My Bowl of Rice is.... not my bowl of rice.

[Reading Fool · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written from the point of view of a Filipina who immigrates to the USA, this book is a great introduction to Filipino culture and cooking. A Filipino dish/recipe is the theme of each chapter. As a Filipina immigrant myself, I related well with Ligaya, the protagonist. This is an account of the struggles and joys of growing up Filipino/a in American society. Very easy read.

[Angela]

Don't know anything about this book, but it is by a Filipino author so I'll check it out.