Our Food Stories
On a school trip to Spain, the group shared bread at every meal. We dipped it in olive oil, spread tomatoes on it, and always asked for more. Now, this bread represents community and acceptance. It truly serves as a stand in for my happiest moments. It is like a soft pillow of comfort to fall into.
Aron , Age 18
Shaker Heights Public Library - Main Library
My favorite meal took place in the dining hall at a Pennsylvania summer camp. The meal included tortillas that were so large they hung over the edges of our plates, cilantro lime rice, and toppings like black beans and salsa. Now, burritos remind me of childhood summers among the pines and lakes.
Brook , Age 17
Cuyahoga County Public Library - Chagrin Falls
My first time eating french toast was the first time I cried over food. The warm bread covered in syrup was incredible to me, and I swear I'd never eaten something so good. Most importantly, it was the first thing I cooked with my grandpa. now , every time i eat it, i cant help but think of him
Jasmin , Age 17
Cuyahoga County Public Library - Mayfield
A food that tastes like home for me are my mom’s homemade fajitas. The meal has been a constant in my life working as a symbol of reliability. Growing up to now graduating high school, the smell of fajitas continue to be a reminder of love and commitment in my life.
Eliza , Age 18
Shaker Heights Public Library - Main Library
Hot steamy gumbo always connects me back to home. Maybe its the rich taste of the roux that reminds me of my fav restaurant, Rice & Roux. Or perhaps its the juicy sausages, chicken and shrimp that reminds me of Louisiana’s bayous. Gumbo takes me back when I was known as a Baton Rouge girl.
zoë , Age 18
Cuyahoga County Public Library - Solon
I love the taste of an iced latte from a local cafe. No matter the flavor, the drink feels like a comfort, sweetly fueling me. It stays with me for hours, lacing my memory of the day with a lush bittersweetness. A symbol of determination and growth, it reminds me to appreciate every moment of life.
Ananya , Age 18
Which library system do you use most often?
I love popcorn. Especially It's so buttery and yummy and my family and I are avid movie watchers, in fact, that is the only way we connect. Over indian and American movies.
Aanya , Age 17
Cuyahoga County Public Library - Strongsville
I love how the warm, gooey insides of pupusas contrast with the sharp, acidic taste of the curtido. The taste revives memories of gratitude circles, growing up, and germinating friendships.
Jinan , Age 17
Cleveland Public Library - Carnegie West
My grandma used to make lefse for holidays with my whole family, and now it represents my love for her and our culture. Now, tasting the somewhat bland wrap with sugar, lemon, chocolate, or butter transports me back to my Norwegian roots of magnificent memories.
lilly , Age 18
Shaker Heights Public Library - Bertram Woods
