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kairosdreaming 's review for:
Dreams of Joy
by Lisa See
Dreams of Joy is the continuation of Shanghai Girls, a novel by See that explored the lives of two sisters displaced by the war in China, and their life in America as they struggled to assimilate and be accepted by their community. Dreams of Joy follows Joy, the daughter from that book and her want to return to her roots, find out about her father, and join the revolution she believed to be happening.
I had a harder time with this book. Joy was just not a likable character for me. Too gullible when she was supposed to be smart, always did the opposite of what she should. It was frustrating to read; you think she'd make a good choice at least some of the time. Thankfully Pearl was steadfast, and even more likable in this one as she evolved her character quite a bit.
The ending, while a bit too neatly wrapped up for me, was good. I think the book as a whole definitely let you into the world and understand a little more of that time period. Although the subject matter was often sad or horrific at times, there was also a strong sense of family in the book and people looking out for each other.
So in conclusion, not as good as Shanghai Girls, but it still gave a glimpse into history.
Review by M. Reynard 2021
I had a harder time with this book. Joy was just not a likable character for me. Too gullible when she was supposed to be smart, always did the opposite of what she should. It was frustrating to read; you think she'd make a good choice at least some of the time. Thankfully Pearl was steadfast, and even more likable in this one as she evolved her character quite a bit.
The ending, while a bit too neatly wrapped up for me, was good. I think the book as a whole definitely let you into the world and understand a little more of that time period. Although the subject matter was often sad or horrific at times, there was also a strong sense of family in the book and people looking out for each other.
So in conclusion, not as good as Shanghai Girls, but it still gave a glimpse into history.
Review by M. Reynard 2021