PRMS paperback 309 pages
genre: historical fiction, China, relationships
I finally finished this, even though the book club discussion was last week . . . it was a sad story, filled with sorrow and disappointment. I think the thing that shocked me most was seeing the picture of the author on the back page. She doesn't look oriental at all! I definitely empathized more with Pearl. May just seemed too selfish and shallow. Sam was my favorite character, though, and his story most resonated for me. What a powerful story!
The above was written on 5/24/10. I added the notes below in spring 2017.
I grabbed the audiobook because I didn't remember the details of the story and enjoyed the vocal work by Janet Song on this. WARNING: There are spoilers in my notes!!!
- Pearl is so sad, she feels so unworthy
- the Japanese - murdered the wheelbarrow puller, raped Mam. No, Pearl! Stay in hiding! Mom's strength - wow. so sad.
- "What can I do?" This got old after a while - Pearl is such a victim. (What did I think of this the first time I read it? My notes above don't indicate.)
- arranged marriages . . . Sam is a good guy, but Vern is only 14 years old! And he has issues . . .
- conversation with Sam and Pearl - the honesty and closeness - I loved this!
- "None of that Jesus thinking sank into us." - Pearl's observations of the missionaries in Shanghai and how her family got what they wanted without buying in to the beliefs.
- white - the color of death
- Sam's suicide . . . devastating.
- perceptions / jealousy, victimhood, accusations, honesty, built-up resentments
- ending - what?!?! Pearl is going to Red China to find Joy? Ugh!
- Sisters' story, really.
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