Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

Historical Fiction

Although Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is set in 19th century China during the time women’s feet were still bound I found it to be a story of women everywhere. Within this story of two friends are elements that are universal. In the story we see how women will follow tradition even when it can cause harm or even death, how one best friend can betray another, and how a women form their own society.

In the story are seldom seen glimpses of the kind of life women lived in China when foot binding was common. Much of the story revolves around two friends who use nu shu a secret women’s language that was hidden from men for over 1000 years. It follows them from childhood, through marriage, motherhood, and old age. I think any of us can see a little and learn a little about of ourselves from the women portrayed in the book.

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan would be a good choice for discussion in a book club.

Random House published Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See (http://www.lisasee.com/snowflower.htm) in 2005.