We discussed Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See on Sept. 28 at Layne's house. We were all pleasantly surprised that Chris brought Asian goodies from Chinatown including moon cakes and almond cookies. We had a great time sampling a little of everything.
There was lot's to talk about--we were perhaps most fascinated (and horrified) by the foot binding process. In general, we had all learned a lot--about the secret women's writing (nu shu), about Chinese society of the period (especially the role (i.e: treatment) of women), the complex set of rituals--a celebration for every occasion.
Time was spent discussing whether or not Lily and Snow Flower had a sexual relationship or whether it was a typical female friendship at a time when women were restricted in their relationships with other members of society. We had to agree to disagree on that one.
The abruptness of the change in Lily's personality was also a subject of conversation--when she marries into a wealthy family and produces sons she becomes confident, somewhat smug, and bossy. Laura pointed out that this change almost splits the book into two separate stories.
This is obviously a discussion-worthy book. We did manage to fit in a wealth of side conversations as always.
See Lisa See's informative web site for information about her research for the book.
Next book: Whatever Makes You Happy by Lisa Grunwald.
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