ACHUKA Book of the Day 20 Aug 2026
Publisher: Pushkin Press
ISBN: 9781782696032
“Song’s lighthearted, expressive character studies and simple, specific scenery, rendered with textural ink-and-watercolor artwork, blend into a true visual treat. Intimately realized scenes of kitchen life envelop readers; Song’s imaginative specificity revels in small moments of plating and serving, cleaning and closing, as well as the rich rewards of working as a team. A deeply satisfying adventure for readers young and old.” KIRKUS
“Fluid ink and watercolor art bring the world of food-obsessed animals to life as Night Chef uses her wits and cooking skills to brave the outside world. Amiable critters are always eager to lend a hand in this heartwarming tale about sharing the joy of food with family and friends, and paying it forward.” PublishersWeekly
“In this warm, endearing graphic novel…” MUSE
THIS IS NO ORDINARY RESTAURANT. AND NIGHT CHEF IS NO ORDINARY CHEF.
For years she has lived inside the walls, honing her cooking skills. But though her talented paws can transform the humblest ingredients, the humans will never accept her – so she remains hidden, and alone.
Then a fateful ramen mishap leads her to Ichi – a lost baby crow. As they search for his home together, Night Chef discovers that good food tastes even better when shared with those you love.
Mika Song makes children’s books about sweetly funny outsiders. Henry, Like Always by Jenn Bailey and illustrated by Mika received the Schneider Family Award and a Geisel Honor from the American Library Association. Her graphic novel for early readers Donut Feed the Squirrels was nominated for an Eisner award. She co-founded the weekly free kids comics collection Sundayhaha.com with Jen de Oliveira. She lives in Queens, NY in walking distance to all her favorite places to eat.
Here she is showing and talking about the US hardback edition (published last year):
★ In her “wholesome” middle grade graphic novel NIGHT CHEF, Mika Song presents a “heartwarming tale about sharing the joy of food with family and friends, and paying it forward” https://t.co/ktlPxDVXOZ
— Publishers Weekly (@PublishersWkly) August 8, 2025
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