The Human Says:

This is a journey of self-discovery and growth, weaving together my experiences and travels. It explores the intricate themes of family, love, cooking, nomadism, and my creative process of writing. The narrative follows my transitions from Lowell, MA to San Diego CA, way up north to icy mountains of Alaska and then the sunset shores of Hawaii.

The road is where I discover a profound sense of belonging and purpose. Along the way, I grapple with moments of uncertainty, draw inspiration and find determination in pursuing my identity, aspirations, and storytelling. Through diverse encounters with cultures, landscapes, a beautiful kaleidoscope of personalities, and many personal challenges, I embark on a quest for fulfillment and connection, driven by a deep desire to share my unique narrative with the world.

That's all to say, I fucked around and found out.

The AI Says:

Soup From Bones is a reflective and introspective journey through food, culture, and personal growth. The book weaves together Johnny’s nomadic experiences, culinary adventures, and deep connections to family and heritage. It explores how food serves as a medium for storytelling, cultural identity, and community building. Through rich imagery and poetic language, Johnny invites readers into a world where flavors evoke memories and cooking becomes an act of preserving tradition while embracing new influences.

The book touches on various themes, such as the transformative power of travel, the significance of ancestral knowledge, and the ways in which cooking can bring people together. It also delves into Johnny’s personal stories, exploring his journey from a wandering artist and aspiring chef to a narrator of his own culinary odyssey.

Soup From Bones is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a tapestry of tales, memories, and insights that offer a glimpse into the soul of a chef and storyteller who seeks to find meaning in the ingredients of life.

About the Nomad Edition

Soup from Bones: A Culinary Self-Portrait of Recipes and Stories began as a simple recipe book but evolved into a travel memoir blending food, history, family, and love. After 700+ hours of work over 4 years, I realized that selling through Amazon felt like giving up too much for too little in return. Despite the effort, I make only about $13 per $60 hardcover sold, $6 per eBook, and $10 per paperback. Plus, Amazon’s payout schedule—waiting until November for September sales—isn’t ideal for first-time authors.

That’s when I found Gumroad, which ironically ties into my next book about the Silk Road. With Gumroad, I net $22.00 per $25.00 book, and sales are paid out weekly. I can also set flexible pricing so everyone can afford a copy.

If you prefer a hard-copy, Amazon is still the easiest option, but I’m working on a premium SFB: Hardcover Nomad Edition that I’ll sign, to be available through Blurb. However, being outside the U.S. limits my ability to make that happen right now. Links live soon!

Regarding Hard Copies and Signed Copies

That being said, I know your probably going to want a hard-copy so if you buy this version I will offer a discounted price for your purchase of the hard-copy! This solves 2 problems, you get a book PLUS the e-book, and I get support to continue my journey more immediately. Questions? Email - johnnychanthavong@gmail.com

Let’s Fight the System Together!

Here’s the plan: if you like this version, please leave a review here and on the Amazon versions. It’ll help increase visibility and reach a broader audience. Honestly, I’m figuring this out as I go, but I think it’s worth trying. Thanks, everyone!