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Book Review of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
reviewed on + 271 more book reviews


An excellent look at the traditions and customs of the China in the 1800's. Most people are aware of the tremendous gender gap in modern day China, with boys far outnumbering girls. This is buried in centuries of tradition, as explained by Lily. She narrates the story of her life and one learns of the harsh conditions under which girls are raised.

Fortunately foot binding is no longer practiced. The detailed description of this process made me ill. Lily survives, but her younger sister did not. Still, a fascinating look at a country's past and traditions.