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3.89 AVERAGE

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring reflective tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Oh man this was a bit of a slog with a bit of an unsatisfying ending. Really tried to do the multigenerational trauma and defiantly hit it in some ways but for me this book just feel a little flat. I wouldn't say it wasnt' worth reading, but I think this is going to go in the back of my head and I think I'll forget about it.

I enjoyed the perspectives of the mother and daughter in this touching tale. Their misunderstandings and their compassion for each other felt realistic, and I could identify in particular with the daughter, Ruth. I always enjoy learning more about Chinese culture and reading stories of Chinese Americans. This book includes cultural information by weaving it into the story, rather than reading like a dry, historical account. The main focus is always on the relationships between the characters and on Ruth's attempts to understand her family's past and what it means to her.
emotional hopeful informative reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

The first part of the book is slow.  Almost a slog.  I’m SO happy I persevered as the second and later parts (that recall the memories from China) and the ending are awesome.  It’s like it was 2 separate books.  

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
emotional inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Amy Tan never disappoints
adventurous reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

brb gna go document my family lore
emotional mysterious reflective sad slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

True rating: 3.75