Jennifer 8. Lee, the daughter of Chinese immigrants and a fluent Mandarin speaker, was immersed in her mother's authentic Chinese cooking from her family's New York City kitchen. After graduating from Harvard, she transitioned into journalism, writing for The New York Times on a diverse range of topics from culture and poverty to technology. Her middle name, '8,' signifies prosperity in Chinese culture. Her work often bridges cultural influences with insightful social commentary.
In "The Fortune Cookie Chronicles," journalist Jennifer 8 Lee explores the rich history of Chinese-American cuisine, revealing the struggles of immigrant chefs and the cultural connections between Chinese and Jewish communities. Blending sociology and personal narrative, she highlights the broader immigrant experience in America.