Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

Title: Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
Author: Lisa See
ISBN: 0812968069
Publisher: Random House
First Published: 2005
No. of pages: 258
Format: Paperback
Rating: 8/10

Synopsis:
Set in nineteenth century China when girls had their feet bound and spent the rest of their lives in seclusion, illiterate, and isolated. In one remote county, women developed their own secret code, "nu shu" - meaning "women's writing" - the only gender-based written language to be found extant in the world. A very imaginative, original story, by a gifted storyteller.

Review:
Despite several very harrowing themes and scenes, Lisa See's portrayal of a very special relationship between two young Chinese girls is a work that radiates love, passion and friendship, as well as hardship and suffering, and the result is stunning. The intricate weaving of the story reflects the growing friendship between Lily and Snow Flower and I was completely drawn into their lives.

I was actually inspired to do some further research into the tradition of foot-binding as a result of reading this novel and find it intriguing (even while I find it very distasteful), and I will certainly be looking further into this period in Chinese history, as well as looking forward to many more offerings from this author!