7. Women of the Silk

By Gail Tsukiyama
Rated 4.5 Stars
Library

This book was a very fast read.  It's listed as YA and I think that must translate into fewer pages (268) slightly larger font (although I don't know why young adults should need larger fonts ) and 1.5 line spacing.   I  enjoyed it and recommend it highly.  I have it's sequel, The Language of Threads and will be starting it this afternoon.  Between them they make one average size book.  Well, average for me that. is.


Why do reviewers say every book about China is reminiscent of Pearl S. Buck?  Is she the worlds standard for books about China?  She was certainly good but there have been other good authors who have written about China.  Why can't they say it's reminiscent of Lisa See (Snowflower and the Secret Fan) or can't they be bothered to try to remember anyone else's name who writes about China.  Hrrrumpf


LIBRARY REVIEW:When Pei Chung is eight years old, her father leaves her at the house of Auntie Yee so that she can work in the silk factory. Her grief at the unexplained abandonment is softened by the kindness of Yee and the other girls, and slowly she begins to thrive in her new independence. The friendship between Pei and Lin, who is the support of her once wealthy and powerful family, is forged with the lives of the silk workers who begin to demand better conditions. The China of 1919-1938, when the Japanese threat became a reality, is woven into the threads of factory life and that of families faced with ruin. The characters are drawn with fine detail. Small village life contrasts vividly with an exciting visit to Canton, and ceremonies are exquisitely described. This fascinating story is beautifully written and slightly reminiscent of Pearl Buck's The Good Earth .