Ying Chang Compestine

A leading national authority on Asian culture and cuisine, Ying Chang Compestine is an award-winning author, former food editor for Martha Stewart’s Whole Living magazine, and host of the popular TV cooking show New Ideas for Delicious Meals on Phoenix TV. She has published 27 books, including fiction, picture books, and six acclaimed cookbooks. Born and raised in Wuhan, China, Ying earned her degree in English from Central China Normal University before completing her graduate studies in Sociology at the University of Colorado, Boulder. Her experiences growing up during the Chinese Cultural Revolution have deeply influenced her storytelling. ​ Ying’s work blends storytelling, culture, and cuisine, making her a frequent media guest. She has been featured on national television programs and profiled in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The San Francisco Chronicle, and The Huffington Post. Additionally, she has contributed to top publications such as Cooking Light, EatingWell, Self, Men's Health, and The Christian Science Monitor. She was named one of the “50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading” by The Author’s Show. ​ Her acclaimed novel, Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party, based on her childhood in China, has won over 30 national awards, is included in school syllabi worldwide, and was selected for the One Book/One County reading program in Santa Clara, California. A true advocate for healthy living and eating, Ying has been a spokesperson for Nestlé Maggi and Celestial Seasonings, developing innovative, health-conscious recipes. Her love for food is infused in all her writing, from cookbooks to novels and picture books. As a sought-after keynote speaker, Ying has been invited to present at prestigious schools, conferences, and luxury venues worldwide, including: -Luxury cruise ships & private travel experiences: The World Residences at Sea, Crystal, Silversea, Viking, TCS World Travel -Wellness retreats & resorts: Canyon Ranch -International literary festivals & academic conferences ​ She speaks passionately about her journey as a writer, her life in Wuhan, and the intersection of food, culture, and storytelling. Through her books and speaking engagements, Ying continues to inspire readers, writers, and food lovers worldwide.