Coded communications eloquently detail the (literally and figuratively) painful constrictions (such as foot-binding) and unexpected rewards of the traditions by which 19th-century Chinese country women conducted their lives. Lily, an elderly matriarch, looks back at her intimate friendship with Snow Flower, a relationship initiated when both were seven years old with a fan Snow Flower sent to Lily. Using a special women's language called "nu shu," the two pour out their innermost feelings to one another, deepening their connection throughout the years until a betrayal divides them.
critical reviews
"A nuanced exploration of women's friendship and women's writing in a remote corner of Imperial China....A keenly imagined journey into the women's quarters." - (Kirkus, 4/15/05)
"A nuanced exploration of women's friendship and women's writing in a remote corner of Imperial China....A keenly imagined journey into the women's quarters." - (Kirkus, 4/15/05)
"As both a suspenseful and poignant story and an absorbing historical chronicle, this novel has best seller potential and should become a reading group favorite as well." (starred review) - (Publishers Weekly, 4/18/05)
"As both a suspenseful and poignant story and an absorbing historical chronicle, this novel has best seller potential and should become a reading group favorite as well." (starred review) - (Publishers Weekly, 4/18/05)
"See skillfully conveys the isolation endured by so many Chinese women, providing heart-wrenching descriptions of the cloistered domestic world into which young girls retreat, and essentially remain for the rest of their lives. See's knowledge of Chinese history never sounds preachy or textbookish; instead, she deploys sympathetic characters within the constraints of a specific place and time." - Kaye Evans (New York Times Book Review, 9/25/05)
"See skillfully conveys the isolation endured by so many Chinese women, providing heart-wrenching descriptions of the cloistered domestic world into which young girls retreat, and essentially remain for the rest of their lives. See's knowledge of Chinese history never sounds preachy or textbookish; instead, she deploys sympathetic characters within the constraints of a specific place and time." - Kaye Evans (New York Times Book Review, 9/25/05)
"See's writing is intricate and graceful, and her attention to detail never wavers, making for a lush, involving reading experience. This beautiful tale should have wide appeal." - Kaye Evans (Booklist, 7/1/05)
"See's writing is intricate and graceful, and her attention to detail never wavers, making for a lush, involving reading experience. This beautiful tale should have wide appeal." - Kaye Evans (Booklist, 7/1/05)
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"Loved this book! I would have a hard time believing that I could relate to these characters, but after reading this book I have realized that women are the same everywhere and across all nationalities. If you are looking for an amazing journey on a lifelong female friendship that is even stronger than the bonds of marriage, then read Snow..." see more
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