by Lisa See
The story is set in ancient China about two girls from different background. Snow Flower and Lily grows up becoming best friends (the best friends forever~bff of ancient times) after being selected to be laotang (sworn sister). Through the secret language that is only known exclusively to women call Nü Shu, written in between the foldings of paper fan, they communicate and understand each other happiness, sorrows and many others despite being physically apart.
Not every woman is fortunate enough to be destined a laotang bond, but those who is fortunate can be described by the words of Lily's aunt, "A laotong relationship is made by choice for the purpose of emotional companionship and eternal fidelity. A marriage is not made by choice and has only one purpose — to have sons." In a time where marriages are arranged, laotang relationship is crucial for women to help each other on emotional level where fathers, brothers, husbands and sons may never understand despite all this people was the center of a woman's life at some point.
However, like any relationship which started off with a lie, this relationship was disastrous as the story progress. Despite Lily's acceptance of Snow Flower's situation after learning the truth about her sworn sister, but a shift of status in society hierarchy between them was a challenge. Lily's inability to forget Snow Flower's past lies had shape her to grow to believe her sworn sister will betray her despite the latter did everything to please Lily. Some words utter by Snow Flower is enough to destroy the bond that was purely misunderstood by Lily as betraying her for other 'sworn sister'. Will Lily find out the truth before its too late?
Why you should get this book?
The story provide a glimpse into what it was like to be a woman in ancient China (the period between 1800~1890) where traditions like foot binding determines a woman's destiny and fate. One may also learn of society's stigma and taboos during that period. Good topic to be discuss in book club.
Did you know?
The book had been adapted into a movie starring Chinese actress, Li Bing Bing (Lily) and Korean actress, Gianna Jun (Snow Flower). The movie was released in summer, 2011.
There is one (1) hardcover in stock for this title at the moment. Selling for RM40 inclusive of delivery.
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