Add Row 
Add 
A Literary Celebration: UCSB's Selection of 'Crying in H Mart'
Next year, the heartwarming narrative of cultural identity, food, and grief will be at the forefront of community conversations at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB). The university has chosen the critically acclaimed memoir, Crying in H Mart, penned by Michelle Zauner, as the common book for the 2026 UCSB Reads program. This program not only invites students and faculty across campus to share in the reading experience but also fosters discussions around the profound themes inherent in Zauner's poignant story.
Exploring Cultural Identity Through Grief
At the core of Crying in H Mart lies a deeply personal narrative steeped in the exploration of Zauner's Korean American identity, her profound connection to her late mother, and the healing power of food. After growing up as one of the few Asian Americans in her hometown in Oregon, Zauner recounts her journey back into the rich traditions of her heritage following her mother's battle with terminal cancer. As she navigates her grief, Zauner finds solace and connection through food, especially the Korean dishes shared in her family's culture.
UCSB Reads: Bridging Communities
The UCSB Reads initiative, which enters its 20th year in 2026, aims to deepen community bonds by selecting impactful literature that resonates across different cultures and generations. By choosing Crying in H Mart, the program amplifies themes of loss, identity, and the importance of familial connections—a sentiment that is universally relatable. The university will host various events throughout the winter and spring quarters, from panel discussions to cooking demonstrations inspired by the book’s culinary highlights. It’s this interdisciplinary approach that enriches student learning and involvement.
Events and Author Engagement
To kickstart this literary journey, UCSB will distribute free copies of the memoir to students in January 2026. It's an opportunity that encourages not only reading but also a deeper engagement with the text through discussions and campus events. One of the highlights will be a free public talk by Michelle Zauner herself, who will share behind-the-scenes insights into her memoir, scheduled for May 7, 2026, at UCSB Campbell Hall. This event promises to connect with fans and students alike, intertwining the themes of her memoir with her experiences as a musician.
A Bestselling Success
Since its publication in 2021, Crying in H Mart has received widespread acclaim, spending over 60 weeks on The New York Times hardcover non-fiction bestseller list and winning several prestigious awards, including the 2022 American Book Award. Critics have praised Zauner’s ability to evoke emotion through her writing, noting it as a 'book you experience with all of your senses'.
Why 'Crying in H Mart' Matters
This memoir serves not only as a story of Zauner's personal journey but also as a collective narrative of immigrant experiences, food's emotional significance, and the shared bonds of family. By reading and discussing it, the UCSB community aims to foster understanding, compassion, and connection among students of diverse backgrounds.
Join the Conversation
As the UCSB Reads 2026 program approaches, members of the Santa Barbara community surrounding Bakersfield are encouraged to participate and engage with the book. Whether through local events or discussions in classrooms, the themes of Crying in H Mart provide a unique opportunity to explore the intersections of culture, grief, and identity. Get ready to immerse yourself in a narrative that speaks to the heart of what it means to connect through shared experiences and food.
For more information on upcoming events and how you can get involved, visit the UCSB Library’s website or reach out to participate in discussions surrounding this remarkable memoir. Join us as we embark on this literary journey together!
Write A Comment