47 pages • 1 hour read
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Hunan, China • 19th century
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See is a frame tale narrated by an 80-year-old Chinese woman named Lily, reflecting on her life, friendship with Snow Flower, and their shared experiences. The story follows Lily and Snow Flower from childhood to adulthood, exploring the cultural practices of foot-binding, marriage, and female friendship as they navigate personal hardships and societal expectations. Sensitive topics include domestic violence, addiction, and infant mortality.
Emotional
Contemplative
Mysterious
Melancholic
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
383,716 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lisa See's Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is lauded for its evocative portrayal of female friendship and historical detail of 19th-century China. Readers praise its emotional depth and cultural insights, though some find its pacing slow and the narrative occasionally melodramatic. Overall, it's a poignant and enriching read.
Who Should Read Snow Flower and the Secret Fan?
Readers who enjoy Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See are likely fans of historical fiction, particularly those captivated by Chinese culture and strong female friendships. Similar books include Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden and The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan, which also explore intricate relationships and cultural heritage.
383,716 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Novel • Fiction
Hunan, China • 19th century
2005
Adult
18+ years
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