About

illustration of grandma holding her birthday cake

This book is inspired by the real-life events of my grandparents, Bai Hyung Shin (Hami) and Lee Man Yong (Yong). They independently fled North Korea in 1950 during the Korean War, met and settled in Busan, South Korea. In 1975, they journeyed to Toronto, Canada with their children. Like many immigrants of their generation, my grandparents began this new life with little resources and no grasp of the English language. She currently resides in Toronto, surrounded by her 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Naengmyeon ("neng-mee-yon") is a cold noodle dish that originates from North Korea and is served in a large brass or stainless-steel bowl. To this day, four generations of Hami and Yong’s family gather around the dinner table over a refreshing bowl of naengmyeon.


Christine Jinae Lee (Author)

Christine Jinae Lee grew up listening to the compelling stories of her family’s journey from a war-torn Korea to Toronto, Canada.

Inspired to preserve these tales for her own children and others on similar paths, the idea for this book was born.

She works in product management and enjoys pursuing creative passion projects. Based in Toronto, Canada, she cherishes story time with her two children.


Seyoung Jang (Illustrator)

Seyoung is an artist from South Korea. Currently based in California, she received her master's degree in Animation at Savannah College of Arts and Design.

Seyoung loves creating touching stories and figuring out the best visual element to present them. With her art style, you would find her making emotionally compelling stories.

During her free time, you can find her listening to an audiobook, petting dogs, or finding a great place to hike!