Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Review of Empress Orchid

Empress Orchid
Empress Orchid
Author: Anchee Min
Genre: Literature & Fiction
Book Type: Paperback
reviewed on


The despair and tragedy that gives birth to this story of a young girl destined for a greater purpose spoke to my heart. This is a novel that will stay with you for a long time. As I read, I saw the scenes of the china countryside, the Forbidden City, and the ornamental characters whose lives make up the intricate tapestry weaving through all. One cannot help but imagine the novel being set to film!

After reading the story and researching more of the author, Anchee Min, I find that she has her own compelling story, and was once required under the social dictatorship of China, to perform as a movie actress in propaganda films. This perhaps, has inspired a cinematic quality to the telling of story, but more than that, a wisdom that can see the truth behind pomp and tradition, honoring a culture and people that are now mostly lost.

An amazing story by an accomplished authoress.