erin_andi 's review for:

Dreams of Joy by Lisa See
5.0

Lisa See didn't disappoint, once again. In the emotional continuation of "Shanghai Girls", family and cultural ties are once again tested when Joy runs away to communist China and her mother follows. The alternating chapters told from both mother and daughter serve as a unique glimpse into both sides of a complicated relationship. With each character, See creates such honest inner and outer dialogue that allows the reader to feel enveloped by the women's voices. A sad, honest glimpse of history combined with the emotional pull of lovable characters makes for a compelling read.