Reviews

Barefoot Doctor by Can Xue

ger_c_s's review

hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

breadandmushrooms's review

emotional reflective relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

thesapphiccelticbookworm's review

boring

grayjay's review

5.0

I love being swept into the dream worlds that Can Xue conjures, but I don't think it would be for everyone. Barefoot Doctor is much more accessible than Frontier or Five Spice Street, but it still takes a certain willingness to look beyond expected narrative logic.

On Niulan Mountain the collapsing spirit can be revived, and living and the dead live as close as in a dream. In Yun Village at the foot of Niulan Mountain, Mrs. Yi is a gifted Barefoot Doctor, celebrated for her knowledge of herbs. Various youths come to her to apprentice but are they suited to a life of caring for their neighbours? Time will tell.

paritea's review

slow-paced

3.5

tinyjude's review

emotional lighthearted mysterious reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character

3.75

I liked the exploration of the close bond between nature and human beings, as well as the realm of spirits. It is a relaxing read with beautiful writing. The character's admiration and love for plants, beings and just each other was very healing. I liked the imagery, even though I know I lack the knowledge of chinese's cultural symbolisms that would only enrich the reading.