Status
Available
Collection
Publication
Beacon Press (2001), 328 pages
Description
"The story of Rooster, Shadow, and Mei Ju, who become fast friends while members of a girls' house, where young daughters are taught to become daughter-in-law. These girls, however, want neither to marry nor to become nuns (the only options open to them at the time). They choose instead to support themselves through their skills in embroidery and silk production. Though ostracized by their families, attacked, and barely able to find sustenance and shelter, these sze saw, or self-combers as they would come to be called, manage to create lives that they alone control."--Jacket.
User reviews
LibraryThing member leiauna
This was a very interesting and emotional story. A great, fast read and perfect for a book group.
LibraryThing member marient
Real nineteenth century heroines of China's Pearl River Delta. Three young girls make the radical decision not to marry or join a nunnery (their only choices then) but instead to earn their living.. Their battle for independence would change the lives of thousands of others.
Language
Original language
English