Essay Questions

What makes the ‘Simple Recipes’ book unique?

Thien tactically engages readers by evoking their feelings because she connects well with the characters. The reader realizes that Thien relates her personal real-life experiences to what most of the book's characters are going through. The book is entirely about giving hope to those who are about to give up in life. Remarkably, several book characters are going through difficult times in life and are full of sorrow. Thien provides the much-needed hope with scrupulousness and sympathy. Therefore, the book is unique because it talks about real-life challenges in family relationships and friendships, and more importantly, it gives hope to the grieved ones. Thien concludes that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and each person, despite the challenges, must keep on maneuvering.

How should one deal with the imperfections of life, according to the author?

Thien talks more about the complexities of life, friendships, and relationships. According to Thien, all human beings can't be brought up in a conducive environment. Consequently, all people can't create perfect friendships and relationships while growing up. Most people desire specific attributes before engaging in relationships, but the author argues that we are not perfect. There is a need to understand each other and, more importantly, try to teach others the attributes we would desire them to build and develop; otherwise, there is no perfect human being in existence.

What are some of the factors that contribute to family dysfunction?

Most families face the threat of break due to improper parenting, drug abuse, and financial constraints. Thien develops the issue of domestic dysfunction as the central theme of the book. She explores some of the factors that threaten family relationships, and she settles on life imperfections that can be avoided. Improper parenting exposes children to emotional upsets, which impact negatively on their growth. Consequently, domestic dysfunction is the main issue that connects most of the collection of Thien's stories.