Pearl of China
Pearl of China
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010
Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
China • Early 20th century
2010
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Pearl of China by Anchee Min is a fictionalized biography of Pearl S. Buck, focusing on her friendship with a Chinese girl named Willow Yee, both growing up in Chin-Kiang at the end of the 19th century. Their friendship endures despite the Boxer Rebellion and personal struggles, with Pearl fleeing to America and Willow facing two failed marriages and political tribulations within China. The book includes descriptions of child abuse, addiction, disability, and imprisonment.
Emotional
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
9,056 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anchee Min's Pearl of China vividly portrays the life of writer Pearl S. Buck in China, eliciting praise for its rich historical detail and emotional depth. However, some critics find the narrative overly sentimental and the character development uneven. While it offers a compelling portrait of cross-cultural friendship, certain historical liberties may distract discerning readers.
Who Should Read Pearl of China?
A reader who enjoys Pearl of China by Anchee Min likely appreciates historical fiction and narratives featuring strong female protagonists. Fans of Lisa See’s Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club will find this evocative tale of friendship and cultural transformation particularly compelling.
9,056 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
304
Novel • Fiction
China • Early 20th century
2010
Adult
18+ years
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