Author: Lisa See
Pages: 354
Format: Hardcover, paperback, Kindle/ebook, audiobook
Publisher: Random House
Book Source: Public Library System
Category: Historical fiction
Style: Bleak, disturbing imagery
Synopsis from GoodReads:
Reeling from newly uncovered family secrets, and anger at her mother and aunt for keeping them from her, Joy runs away to Shanghai in early 1957 to find her birth father—the artist Z.G. Li, with whom both May and Pearl were once in love. Dazzled by him, and blinded by idealism and defiance, Joy throws herself into the New Society of Red China, heedless of the dangers in the communist regime.Devastated by Joy’s flight and terrified for her safety, Pearl is determined to save her daughter, no matter the personal cost. From the crowded city to remote villages, Pearl confronts old demons and almost insurmountable challenges as she follows Joy, hoping for reconciliation. Yet even as Joy’s and Pearl’s separate journeys converge, one of the most tragic episodes in China’s history threatens their very lives. read more . . .
My Take:
I didn't care for Shanghai Girls, the sequel of which Dreams of Joy is. I found it bleak, oppressive and far too graphically violent in a scene where the protagonist is sexually assaulted by a gang of soldiers. From that nadir, it improved precious little. I found no hope in it. However, I read a reviewer who indicated that the sequel, Dreams of Joy, improves the first. That made sense to me, especially at the particular place Ms. See breaks the story. A sequel bespoke resolution, and the front half could well be improved by the back.So, I reserved Dreams of Joy at the library. I wish I hadn't. I have so many better things to read.
