Ying Chang Compestine facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Ying Chang Compestine
Compestine in 2014
Born	張瀛 (1963-03-08) March 8, 1963 (age 62) Wuhan, Hubei, China
Occupation	Author
Language	English
Alma mater	Central China Normal University University of Colorado Boulder
Genre	Fiction, children's books, cookbooks, historical fiction, cultural studies
Notable works	Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party (2007)
Spouse	Greg M. Compestine
Children	1
Chinese name
Traditional Chinese	張瀛
Simplified Chinese	张瀛
Transcriptions Standard Mandarin Hanyu Pinyin Zhāng Yíng Wade–Giles Chang1 Ying2

Ying Chang Compestine was born on March 8, 1963. She is a Chinese American author, speaker, TV host, and chef. She has written more than 27 books. These include Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party (novel), which tells about her life during China's Cultural Revolution. She also wrote Morning Sun in Wuhan, a novel for middle schoolers.

About Ying Chang Compestine

Ying Chang Compestine grew up in Wuhan, China. Her family faced challenges during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. This was a time when the government tried to change society. Her family's belongings were taken, and her father was put in jail. Because of these hard times, Ying lived with her grandparents for a while.

She studied English and American literature in China. She also taught English there. Later, she worked as an interpreter for China's earthquake bureau.

In 1990, Ying earned a master's degree in sociology. She got this from the University of Colorado Boulder. Before becoming a famous author, she taught sociology at colleges in the U.S. and China. She taught until 1998.

Teaching and TV Work

After moving to the United States, Compestine continued teaching. She taught sociology and writing at universities. She has won awards for her teaching. These include the Master Teacher Award.

Ying has also hosted cooking shows in China. She has appeared on popular channels like the Food Network. She worked as a food editor for Body + Soul magazine. She also writes for other health and food magazines. She is a spokesperson for big companies like Nestle.

Her Books

Compestine started writing after her son was born. Her first book was a cookbook called Secrets of Fat-Free Chinese Cooking (1997). She began writing children's books after her parents passed away. She missed China and her family very much. She is still writing many children's books today.

Her book Revolution is Not a Dinner Party (2007) is based on her own childhood. It tells about growing up in China during a difficult time. This book has won many awards. It was named one of the best books for young readers by the American Library Association.

In 2014, Compestine wrote Secrets of The Terra Cotta Soldier with her son, Vinson.

Her picture book, Growing Up Under a Red Flag (2024), shares more about her childhood. It has received great reviews from critics. It was also chosen as a Gold Standard Selection.

Other recent picture books include Ra Pu Zel and the Stinky Tofu (2024). Her book The Chinese New Year Helper came out in 2025.

Her middle-grade novel, Morning Sun in Wuhan, was released in 2022.

Her young adult novel, A Banquet for Hungry Ghosts, is being made into an animated TV series.

Her graphic novel cookbook, Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and Other Curiously Named Classic Chinese Dishes: A Graphic Cookbook--26 Recipes and Stories, was released in March 2025.

Speaking Engagements

Ying Chang Compestine is a popular speaker and chef. She has spoken on luxury cruise ships and at resorts. She also gives talks on private jets.

She shares stories about her life in China. She talks about how she overcame challenges. She also speaks about healthy eating and cooking. She offers writing programs too. In her Writer-in-Residence Program, she works with students and teachers. She helps them get excited about reading and writing.

Awards for Her Books