I just finished reading the ARE of Lisa See’s wonderful new novel Shanghai Girls. I was a fan of both Snowflower and the Secret Fan and Peony in Love, but I thought her new book blew them away. It is more contemporary, set in 1930s Los Angeles and focuses on the relationship between two sisters as they struggle to make their way in the world after leaving Shanghai through arranged marriages. See’s exploration of sisterhood–both the good and the bad–rings true and readers can’t help but become embroiled in May and Pearl’s lives whether they have a sister or not. Just like her previous books, this is a natural for book discussion groups. Read an excerpt here, and if you’re hooked, email Random House at RHPG@randomhouse.comfor a chance to win an Advanced Reader’s Copy, while supplies last. Otherwise, you’ll need to wait until May 26, 2009 when the book is published.
For more info about Lisa See and her books, to read her blog and to join in her discussion group, visit the author’s website.
-Jen