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Wayson Choy

The Jade Peony

Wayson ChoyFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995

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Wayson Choy

The Jade Peony

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995
Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vancouver, British Columbia • 1940s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Jade Peony by Wayson Choy, set during World War II, follows three Chinese-Canadian siblings: Liang, who forms a profound friendship with Wong Suk, a marginalized elder; Jung, who grapples with his blossoming sexuality and crush on Frank Yuen; and Sekky, who shares a deep bond with his grandmother, Grandmama, who teaches him about old Chinese traditions. The book includes themes of racism, poverty, and struggling with sexual identity.

Nostalgic

Melancholic

Heartwarming

Contemplative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.1

5,555 ratings

63%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Wayson Choy's The Jade Peony is praised for its beautifully crafted portrayal of the Chinese-Canadian immigrant experience and the rich, evocative narrative that brings Vancouver's Chinatown in the 1930s and 1940s to life. Critics commend its authentic voices and nuanced characters, though some find the pacing slow. Overall, it’s a poignant and insightful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Jade Peony?

Readers who appreciate The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan or The Bonesetter's Daughter will enjoy The Jade Peony by Wayson Choy. Ideal for those interested in immigrant stories, cultural identity, and family dynamics, this novel offers a rich exploration of Chinese-Canadian heritage set in early 20th-century Vancouver.

4.1

5,555 ratings

63%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

240

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Vancouver, British Columbia • 1940s

Publication Year

1995

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

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