Monte Recommends: A Story from China

 

These fascinating reads are set in China, featuring historical fiction and Chinese folklore.  

Snowflower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

Coming-of-age girls question foot binding and marriage prospects in rural China. Friendship helps them explore the world beyond their homes, which tragically turns into flight from a rebellion. A powerful story. Also available in movie form on DVD.

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The Painted Veil by W. Somerset Maugham
 

A man dives into a chance to save a town from a Cholera epidemic in China, motivated by his discovery that his wife cheated on him. She dutifully comes along discovering more about the man she dismissed. Also available in movie form on DVD. 

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The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

Generations must cope with their luck. When good news hits, never seem ungrateful for the gods will strike you down, on bad news, try to cope and hide the struggle. Explore different connectivity to the land and what that might bring. 

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The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan 

Four women recall the reasons they left China, their daughters' unrealizing their challenges and bravery. Also available in movie form on DVD. 

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                                                                  Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

This juvenile book features a young girl on a mission to find the Man in the Moon and appeal for monetary help for her family. Featuring Chinese folklore and a myriad of characters, the exploration on the way to the Man on the Moon might be the best part.