Snow flower and the Secret Fan has anyone else read it?

[ledodgy]

I've just finished this book and really loved it. I am looking for other titles to do with this era in China. I'm especially interested in footbinding and the role of women. I studied history in uni but didn't study any chinese history and would really like to learn more. Can anybody suggest any books either fiction or factual?

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Nobody?

Yes, I've read it. Not an easy read (the foot-binding descriptions were pretty gruesome) but overall a brilliant book I thought. The only other book I've read along similar lines is 'Wild Swans', but you've probably read that already.

I have recently read this and did enjoy it! I loved the idea of having a "soul-mate" friend and communicating via a fan - very unusual. I think that is what appeals to me about this type of book, learning about alternative cultures.... Although I agree the foot-binding bits are a bit horrid. I've also read Wild Swans - very good too.

I love Chinese / Japanese focused stories.

Another good fiction novel about foot binding etc is The Binding Chair by Kathryn Harrison. I loved this book and have just lent it to a friend who is well entrenched in it!