A review by saralynnburnett
East Wind: West Wind by Pearl S. Buck

3.0

I really enjoyed this book although I didn't find it to be as compelling or as rich as Buck's other novels. It lacked the depth and generations that the others have. The story starts out about one couple, one girl - Kewi Lan, (she's VERY traditional) whose marriage is arranged. She weds and finds her husband to be a western trained doctor. He doesn't find her bound feet attractive and she is at a loss at how to make him love her. Only once she starts giving up her traditional Chinese ways does their bond grow. The story then shifts it's focus to Kewi-Lan's brother who goes abroad and then brings back an American wife. Kewi-Lan's traditional family is obviously horrified and refuse to accept the foreigner as his betrothed. At this point the story also focuses on Kewi-Lan's ailing mother and their relationship.

The whole East/West thing is a little heavy handed, but it is a good story and well worth reading.