The Good Women of China
Posted: December 14, 2010 Filed under: Book of Sand 2 Comments{ 2002 | Pantheon | 256 pgs }
As the only nonfiction book I’ve read this year, The Good Women of China: Hidden Voices already stood out. But the author’s exceptional writing, in addition to her captivating subject matter, made the book unforgettable.
Xinran was a radio broadcaster in China during the 1980s and 1990s; she wrote The Good Women of China – which recounts some of the stories she collected through interviews on and off her radio program – after leaving the country. One of her goals was explore how Chinese women perceive themselves and their place in society, particularly at a time when social dynamics seemed to be rapidly changing. Most of the stories directly or indirectly involve the Cultural Revolution. Many are heartbreaking.
I admit I know relatively little about China, or Chinese culture and society. Xinran patiently explained so that I could follow along and understand (with the help of my great sociological mind) enough to form a mental framework in which to place her stories. The Good Women of China earns a strong recommendation from me, with a word of caution: this is not light, cheerful reading. The book contains mature themes and, in my opinion, requires a certain degree of solemnity from the reader.
I will have to add it to my LONG list!
I’ve always been curious about China and its culture, past and modern. This sounds even more interesting than culture in general, though I may have to wait until I’m less postpartum to read it, so I don’t bawl too often. I look forward to maybe reading it.