Hello Reading Fans!
How did this month of the Online Reading Challenge treat you? Did you find something really fantastic to read? Something that opened a little window of understanding of the great mystery that is China?
I’m afraid I didn’t do so well this month – I got caught up in reading other books and never came across anything China-related that grabbed my attention. These things happen sometimes (This is why I’m not very good with traditional book clubs – the rebel in me doesn’t always want to read the chosen book!) Fortunately, there aren’t any Library Police and I can simply try again next month!
I do want to draw your attention to two favorite movies set in China that deal with the ancient history of China and are deeply rooted in mysticism. Both are absolutely beautiful
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon caused quite a sensation when it first came out and you may very well have already seen it. Beautifully photographed, superb acting and a story that requires the watcher, much like the characters, to take a leap of faith makes this a film that linger long after the closing credits. A young Chinese warrior steals a sword from a famed swordsman and then escapes into a world of adventure with a mysterious man in the frontier of the nation with serious, long-reaching consequences.
Hero, starting Jet Li, was released shortly after Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and may have been overshadowed by it, but it is stunning in it’s own right. Set in ancient China, warring factions plot to assassinate the most powerful ruler, Qin. When a minor official defeats Qin’s three deadly enemies, he is summoned to the palace to tell Qin the story of his surprising victory. The martial arts scenes, beautifully, artfully choreographed, are worth watching alone but the message, about power and how it is wielded is relevant to all times and societies.
I read Snow flower and the Secret fan by Lisa See. This is the first story I have read of Lisa See but not the last. This is the story of two women in brought together by fate and the Matchmaker. It is a beautiful, but sad, story of their life in the Hunan dynasty, with as the rules and customs of ancient China. The foot binding scenes were gruesome. The language Lisa See writes in is wonderful and descriptive. The custom of nu shu (women’s writing) was something I had not hear of and intrigue me.
I’m glad you liked this book! I found it fascinating – so much culture and tradition I’d never heard about before. And yes, the foot binding scenes – horrific. Thanks for commenting!!