Teresa Chen's long-awaited book on traditional Chinese soups is a thoroughly readable encyclopedic compilation of recipes, cooking methods, geography, history, philosophy, metaphysics, health advice and oral histories. By the time you've finished perusing the pages of this "joy of (Chinese) cooking", you're ready to hit the kitchen and start a pot of soup that takes you back to your childhood.

A special presentation by Dr. Chen of the book, A Tradition of Soup/Flavors from China's Pearl River Delta, sponsored by the Chinese Cultural Society of Stockton is scheduled for Saturday, June 27, at 1 p.m. To be held at Jene Wah Senior Center, 238 E. Church Street, the session includes a cooking demonstration and sampling soups prepared by Dr. Chen. Copies of the book, to be signed by the author, will be available for sale.

The book was a collaborative effort of scores of individuals but it is indeed Dr. Chen's book. Many of the recipes and techniques in the book came from more than a dozen of the center's senior clients; local restaurateurs gave culinary advice. Friends offered treasured cooking pots and tureens for photographing finished soups, contributed special ingredients, interviewed recipe contributors, shared special photographs, and accompanied Dr. Chen on buying trips. All book profits will benefit the Jene Wah Senior Center.