Happiness Is A Good Book

I just finished reading Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See. I can only say one thing. Go out and buy this novel. It is worth every penny. I usually don't enjoy my friend's book club selections, but this one was incredible.



Snow Flower is the laotong (old same) of Lilly a poor Chinese girl in the 19th century. The tale is spun by an 81 year old Lilly now Lady Lu, looking back on her life and her regrets.

In reading this, you catch a glimpse into a strange culture. You read of the girl's foot binding, which results in the death of one sister. You truly see how poorly women were treated, "useless branches" is how they are described over and over. You will also learn about the secret writing of nu shu that women used to communicate with away from the influence of men.

As you see the two girls grow into women you also see the two women switch statures. Lily marries well, but because Snow Flower's father had taken to the pipe, she marries as low as any Chinese girl could marry, a butcher. It is because of this life changing event that their long friendship begins to disintegrate and it almost dies altogether.

You will love both of the characters and share their joys and sorrows. I truly believe that you'll understand what motivates Lily towards the end of the novel when her relationship with Snow Flower is shaken. You will love with these two women. You will cry with them and you will give your forgiveness when the story is done.