A New Favourite

If you haven't already read the book Snow Flower and the Secret Fan you need to. Once you get started you'll have a hard time putting this novel down so be sure you have time to spare when you begin. Foot-binding, arranged marriages and the secret written women's language called nu shu are just a few of the reasons this book is worth your time. Not only will you learn a thing or two about rural Chinese culture in the 19th century but you'll fall in love with Lily and Snow Flower, two young girls who are laotong ("old sames"), as you follow them throughout their lives. This fabulous find is now on my list of best reads.