Good reads

Almost three years ago a couple of girlfriends and I started a bookclub. Over the years we've read everything from mainstream fiction to obscure self-published novels. Our most current pick is a historical fiction novel by author Lisa See called "Snowflower and the Secret Fan." The novel takes place in 19th century China and follows two young girls from different villages who are thrust into each other's lives as "old sames". Though it seems their families are vastly different they experience similar events throughout their lives including footbinding, betrothals, weddings, and childbirth. And through it all they become friends. The story was engrossing from the start and actually led me to another book also by Lisa See called "Peony in Love." Also set in China but during the 17th century, this story delves into the lives of women in the inner chambers and the afterlife. Also a good read but not quite on par with Snowflower.