60 pages • 2 hours read
The Good Earth
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
China • 1920s
1931
Adult
14+ years
Super Short Summary
The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck chronicles 50 years in the life of Wang Lung, an uneducated farmer in late 19th- and early 20th-century eastern China, focusing on his efforts to secure good harvests, purchase more land, and build a lasting foundation for his family amidst challenges like natural disasters, unscrupulous relatives, and social turmoil, with his dependable wife O-lan as his greatest ally. Throughout The Good Earth there are references to opium use, sexual abuse, cannibalism during a famine, and an instance of infanticide.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Emotional
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
261,060 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck is highly praised for its compelling portrayal of Chinese peasant life, rich character development, and evocative prose. However, some critics argue it can feel dated and occasionally perpetuates stereotypes. Despite this, it remains a powerful and influential narrative, revered for its insights into human resilience and cultural heritage.
Who Should Read The Good Earth?
A reader who would enjoy The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck is likely fascinated by historical fiction, particularly stories set in early 20th-century China. Similar to fans of Lisa See's Snow Flower and the Secret Fan or Arthur Golden's Memoirs of a Geisha, they appreciate rich cultural depictions and nuanced character development.
261,060 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
O-lan
O-lan
Wang Lung's quiet and resourceful wife, formerly enslaved, who is instrumental in supporting the family through her strength, wisdom, and dedication, remains a steadfast presence in Wang Lung's life.
Lotus
Lotus
A beautiful former enslaved girl turned sex worker who becomes Wang Lung's concubine, bringing new dynamics into his family life with her alluring yet complex character.
Uncle
Uncle
Wang Lung's troublesome relative who frequently exploits family ties for personal gain, becoming increasingly involved in questionable activities throughout the story.
368
Novel • Fiction
China • 1920s
1931
Adult
14+ years
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