Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, by Lisa See, 3.5 stars rounded up.

[NancyJ]

This is a tough book for me to rate. I can't really say I enjoyed reading it. I had to keep pushing myself to stay with it, and if it weren't for the author challenge, I'm not sure I would have finished it. However... The book is very interesting, I learned a lot, and in the end I was glad I read it. The most interesting thing to me was the way in which women were socialized about cultural expectations from a very young age. Some of the details were so vivid, they will stay with me for some time, especially the process of foot-binding, elaborate rules about friendship, and the escape to the mountains. My least favorite part was the overarching plot involving a big misunderstanding. Lily's emotional reaction and behaviors just didn't ring true based on the rest of the story.

3.5 stars, rounded up.

[Karin]

This is my favourite book of all of the ones by her I've read. It's interesting to see how differently pbt members react to her books.

[Peacejanz]

Yes, I agree - this is my favorite, too. Last month, I bought a copy for a friend who had never read it. The history, the treatment of women, the culture that is different from mine. And the friendship or betrayal of friendship is so interesting. And I am thankful that my life has been easier than that portrayed here. peace, janz