Snow Flower and the Secret Fan Summary
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a historical fiction novel by Lisa See that was first published in 2005. The audiobook version of the novel is narrated by Janet Song and is a great way to experience the story, whether you are a fan of historical fiction or just looking for a compelling and emotional listen.
The story takes place in 19th century China and follows the life of Lily, a young girl from a poor family who is matched with a laotong, or "old same", named Snow Flower. Laotongs are a special kind of sisterly bond that was formed between girls in China, and they were meant to last a lifetime. As Lily and Snow Flower grow older, they share their dreams, their secrets, and their sorrows with each other, using a secret language called nu shu that was created and used exclusively by women.
One of the strengths of Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is its vivid portrayal of life in 19th century China. See does an excellent job of bringing the time period to life, and her attention to detail makes it easy to imagine the sights, sounds, and smells of Lily's world. The use of nu shu, which is a real language that was used by women in some parts of China, adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
The audiobook narration by Janet Song is also excellent. Her voice is clear and expressive, and she does an excellent job of conveying the emotions of the characters. Her pronunciation of the Chinese words and phrases used in the novel is also spot-on, which adds to the authenticity of the listening experience.
Overall, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is a powerful and moving novel that explores the bonds of sisterhood, the constraints of gender roles, and the impact of tradition on women's lives. The audiobook version is a great way to experience the story, with excellent narration and a richly drawn world that will transport you to another time and place.
