The Moon Goddess's Smile

Absorbing and captivating. Wu seamlessly weaves us between the present (circa 2012) and the past. Not just her own past, but that of her family. A truly multi-generational tale. A lot of Chinese history is learned along the way. Mei’s grandpa was quite a kick - loved him. Pre-World War II through 2012 is covered. With expertly tailored storytelling, a whole lot is packed into this novel, in an easily readable length.There are some uncomfortable topics covered: Inappropriate sexual behavior of an

If you love reading novels, you don't want to miss this one!Without destroying the plot, I will sum up Catherine Wu's breakout novel, The Moon Goddess's Smile, simply by telling you it's a tale of cultural clash, resistance and assimilation as folks of Asian ancestry adjust to the challenges of life in 21st century America while their personal problems come to the forefront. But I'm being too simplistic here. Ms. Wu presents us with a solid literary package chock full of drama, suspense, plot tw

Catherine Wu’s debut is historical fiction that reads like a touching memoir. It shares a family history through a cultural revolution that alternatively favors and destroys the foundations of their generations. Following serene past family times through Japanese occupation and the emergence of Chinese oppression, we see the impacts on individuals and how they cope through unimaginable changes. At the same time, we follow one woman’s life of escaping to the United States and living that new cult