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Like Spilled Water
Nineteen-year-old Na has always lived in the shadow of her younger brother, Bao-bao, her parents' cherished son. Years ago, Na's parents left her in the countryside and went to work in the city, bringing Bao-bao along and committing everything to his education.
But when Bao-bao dies suddenly, Na realizes how little she knew him. Did he really kill himself because of a low score on China's all-important college entrance exam? Na learns that Bao-bao had many secrets and that his death may not be what it seems. Na's parents expect her to quit her vocational school and go to work, forcing Na to confront traditional expectations for and pressures on young women.
But when Bao-bao dies suddenly, Na realizes how little she knew him. Did he really kill himself because of a low score on China's all-important college entrance exam? Na learns that Bao-bao had many secrets and that his death may not be what it seems. Na's parents expect her to quit her vocational school and go to work, forcing Na to confront traditional expectations for and pressures on young women.
216 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2020
About the author
Jennie Liu
5 books60 followersJennie Liu is the daughter of Chinese immigrants. Having been brought up with an ear to two cultures, she has been fascinated with the attitudes, social policies and changes in China each times she visits. Follow her on Twitter @starnesliu and IG @jennieliuliu.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 21, 2020
3.5 "impactful, resonant, genuine" stars !!!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Lerner Publishing Group for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is due to be released in September 2020.
Na is a 19-year old girl studying coal technology at a second rate community college. She has been resentful of her younger brother and the attention and money spent on him and his education. In a matter of weeks she has to contend with dark family secrets, her brother's mysterious death and a marriage proposal from a lovely close male friend. Will she settle for factory work, become a rural wife with her own secrets or follow her own individual dreams ?
Through this prism, Ms. Liu, examines and explores life of both rural and urban China and the clash of family responsibilities and individual desires. This is a plot-driven book that teaches the younger reader much about Chinese culture and the stresses and hardships of many of the youth of both genders.
My minor qualms are too many issues for this length of novel as well as my personal preference would be to explore the inner lives of these very interesting characters.
Recommended for readers 14 plus. A very worthwhile read !
:
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and Lerner Publishing Group for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is due to be released in September 2020.
Na is a 19-year old girl studying coal technology at a second rate community college. She has been resentful of her younger brother and the attention and money spent on him and his education. In a matter of weeks she has to contend with dark family secrets, her brother's mysterious death and a marriage proposal from a lovely close male friend. Will she settle for factory work, become a rural wife with her own secrets or follow her own individual dreams ?
Through this prism, Ms. Liu, examines and explores life of both rural and urban China and the clash of family responsibilities and individual desires. This is a plot-driven book that teaches the younger reader much about Chinese culture and the stresses and hardships of many of the youth of both genders.
My minor qualms are too many issues for this length of novel as well as my personal preference would be to explore the inner lives of these very interesting characters.
Recommended for readers 14 plus. A very worthwhile read !
:
May 15, 2020
Honestly, I can't believe this book doesn't have more people reading it. This is seriously an outrage.
Set in China, Like Spilled Water is the story of Na, a college student whose younger brother abruptly dies. She returns home and begins to piece together what happened to him. Through her sleuthing, she ends up learning a lot about herself.
From the blurb, it seems like this book will be a mystery style book, similar to Verity. This is false. Like Spilled Water is about grief, expectations and Chinese culture. It discusses marriage, education, LGBT+, and feminism through the lens of the death of Na's brother. It's about neighborhoods and art, community and arranged marriages.
And this book pretty much broke my heart.
I mean, our main character, Na is ambitious and smart and yet we see how again and again it blows up for her. This book was poignant, so full of missed attempts and failed expectations. You can feel this overwhelming sense of being trapped within your culture, of being unable to be anything but what you are.
Na is so well-developed. Her parents gave up everything for the success of her brother so she harbors a lot of bitterness towards him and yet, it's mingled with this strong sense of connection and empathy. She cares so much and it's just so sad, it's so sad. I found myself tearing up at some scenes here (god, the urn scene).
I don't know much about life in China. Obviously one ya book can't express wholly an entire country but I absolutely adored getting this peek into life in China. I've kind of accepted that ya is usually set in America or maybe the UK so it was so refreshing and special to see the same ya themes be dealt with in a country so different. Chinese people will have to speak up about the accuracy but as a reader, I definitely found myself reading up about children policies after this book.
So if you want a really solid character study, a ya that tackles Chinese culture and grief, this book is truly fantastic. I urge you to read it.
Huge thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for my unbiased review!
What I'm Taking With Me
- 80% of the gay men in China end up marrying women. That's just tragic.
- I had a conversation with a friend the other day about Asian vs Western culture. I mean, when it comes to coronavirus, it seems Asian countries have had a lot more success and yet, we give up some efficiency for our Western values of self-determination and freedom so it should be worth it? This book felt connected to that debate, as Na compares herself to the foreigners that she teaches.
- I love that the main message here is that language, art, and education is the way out of everything, it's this bridge into the world.
Set in China, Like Spilled Water is the story of Na, a college student whose younger brother abruptly dies. She returns home and begins to piece together what happened to him. Through her sleuthing, she ends up learning a lot about herself.
From the blurb, it seems like this book will be a mystery style book, similar to Verity. This is false. Like Spilled Water is about grief, expectations and Chinese culture. It discusses marriage, education, LGBT+, and feminism through the lens of the death of Na's brother. It's about neighborhoods and art, community and arranged marriages.
And this book pretty much broke my heart.
I mean, our main character, Na is ambitious and smart and yet we see how again and again it blows up for her. This book was poignant, so full of missed attempts and failed expectations. You can feel this overwhelming sense of being trapped within your culture, of being unable to be anything but what you are.
Na is so well-developed. Her parents gave up everything for the success of her brother so she harbors a lot of bitterness towards him and yet, it's mingled with this strong sense of connection and empathy. She cares so much and it's just so sad, it's so sad. I found myself tearing up at some scenes here (god, the urn scene).
I don't know much about life in China. Obviously one ya book can't express wholly an entire country but I absolutely adored getting this peek into life in China. I've kind of accepted that ya is usually set in America or maybe the UK so it was so refreshing and special to see the same ya themes be dealt with in a country so different. Chinese people will have to speak up about the accuracy but as a reader, I definitely found myself reading up about children policies after this book.
So if you want a really solid character study, a ya that tackles Chinese culture and grief, this book is truly fantastic. I urge you to read it.
Huge thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for my unbiased review!
What I'm Taking With Me
- 80% of the gay men in China end up marrying women. That's just tragic.
- I had a conversation with a friend the other day about Asian vs Western culture. I mean, when it comes to coronavirus, it seems Asian countries have had a lot more success and yet, we give up some efficiency for our Western values of self-determination and freedom so it should be worth it? This book felt connected to that debate, as Na compares herself to the foreigners that she teaches.
- I love that the main message here is that language, art, and education is the way out of everything, it's this bridge into the world.
June 8, 2020
Thank You to NetGalley and Lerner Publishing Group for this ARC!!
Set in China, Nineteen-year-old Na has always lived in the shadow of her younger brother, Bao-bao. But when Bao-bao dies suddenly, Na realizes how little she knew him. Did he really kill himself because of a low score on China's all-important college entrance exam? Na learns that Bao-bao had many secrets and that his death may not be what it seems.
This book was an interesting and simple read about the life in China, especially through the eyes of a young teenage girl. It deals with the topics such as one-child policy, the gaokao exams and the differences in lifestyle in urban and rural China.
The main character of the book, Na, was well written. It was enjoyable to read her journey discovering her desires and goals in life, while understanding the complexity of family relationships and expectations.
Overall I enjoyed this book since I could learn some new things about the Chinese culture and life.
Set in China, Nineteen-year-old Na has always lived in the shadow of her younger brother, Bao-bao. But when Bao-bao dies suddenly, Na realizes how little she knew him. Did he really kill himself because of a low score on China's all-important college entrance exam? Na learns that Bao-bao had many secrets and that his death may not be what it seems.
This book was an interesting and simple read about the life in China, especially through the eyes of a young teenage girl. It deals with the topics such as one-child policy, the gaokao exams and the differences in lifestyle in urban and rural China.
The main character of the book, Na, was well written. It was enjoyable to read her journey discovering her desires and goals in life, while understanding the complexity of family relationships and expectations.
Overall I enjoyed this book since I could learn some new things about the Chinese culture and life.
October 18, 2020
This is such a wonderful, strong story!
While reading, I felt Na's emotions with her. The impatience, the sadness, the anger about all those things that were not fair, even the pressure to do as her parents say felt tangible even when I do not have the same experience. This story gave a little insight in what life for girls like Na can look like, and I am very grateful that I got the chance to gain this insight.
I received a free copy through Netgalley, my opinions are my own.
While reading, I felt Na's emotions with her. The impatience, the sadness, the anger about all those things that were not fair, even the pressure to do as her parents say felt tangible even when I do not have the same experience. This story gave a little insight in what life for girls like Na can look like, and I am very grateful that I got the chance to gain this insight.
I received a free copy through Netgalley, my opinions are my own.
October 5, 2020
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
I would Like to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, Jennie Liu, for the opportunity to read this book. I learned a lot about Chinese culture while reading this book. If a female is born first, a couple is given a second chance to have a son. Girls are, ‘ like spilled water’, they take up space in the family until they belong to their husband’s family.
When a has a couple a male child, regardless of birth order. He becomes their hope for the future. And, The older, Female child is forgotten. This causes resentment and friction between the siblings.
Bao Bao does not live up to what his parents expect of him after years of being lavished with opportunities. Na, is called home. She is told her brother committed suicide. But, that does not make sense. Even though she resents what he was given over the years, she does not believe he would hurt himself.
This is a story of family love and loyalty. Na, tries to do what is right for her family. But, in the end, she does what is right for herself!!!!
February 10, 2021
Na is the oldest child from a poor family in China. Her parents dote over her younger brother Bao-bao and focus all their money/attention/efforts/hopes on getting him into a good college so he can "become an engineer, buy a house, buy a car, and then take care of them in their old age." No feels overlooked, unloved, and resentful of Bao-bao's opportunities, especially since she is the better and more committed student. Na was basically raised by her grandmother in the countryside while her parents work in the city to support her brother, whom they brought to live with them to attend a private middle and high school there. When Na gets word that her brother is dead, she goes to the city to be with her parents.
As the circumstances of his death unfold, Na realizes the shame her family will endure because of his suicide. She is also forced to quit school (vocational tech training) to come work with her parents in the city to meet their expenses. When Na meets a friend of Bao-bao that her parents don't know about, she learns some disturbing things about her brother that she cannot explain. As she searches for a way to mesh her personal desires and goals with the needs of her parents and the expectations of her family, Na also begins to unravel the secrets of her brother's life.
Told with straightforward clarity, this book is an easy, entertaining read that will break your heart. The glimpse Liu provides into life in modern China is fascinating and frustrating at the same time. I not only liked Na, I sympathized with her and rooted for her. The side characters were fleshed out and felt real (as real as side characters can in a short book). All in all, an enjoyable and pleasant read, despite the grief inherent in the story line. I definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in Chinese culture and all fans of YA literature in general.
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
As the circumstances of his death unfold, Na realizes the shame her family will endure because of his suicide. She is also forced to quit school (vocational tech training) to come work with her parents in the city to meet their expenses. When Na meets a friend of Bao-bao that her parents don't know about, she learns some disturbing things about her brother that she cannot explain. As she searches for a way to mesh her personal desires and goals with the needs of her parents and the expectations of her family, Na also begins to unravel the secrets of her brother's life.
Told with straightforward clarity, this book is an easy, entertaining read that will break your heart. The glimpse Liu provides into life in modern China is fascinating and frustrating at the same time. I not only liked Na, I sympathized with her and rooted for her. The side characters were fleshed out and felt real (as real as side characters can in a short book). All in all, an enjoyable and pleasant read, despite the grief inherent in the story line. I definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in Chinese culture and all fans of YA literature in general.
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reader copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2021
Heart wrenchingly beautiful.
Absolutely amazing narrative. I loved this!
Na’s finishes her first year and instead of celebrating, she gets a call from home saying her brother is suddenly dead.
No one seems keen on talking about it. She has to give up school to pay for debts that her parents took for favoured brothers schooling.
She resents that her parents favoured her brother and his education over hers and now he’s committed suicide over his poor results.
Over time, she realizes she barely knew her brother in his past few years.
She finds herself engaged (sort of) and nothing seems to be going well in her life.
New secrets seem to come out and how should she face them?
Overall, a very good read and a emotional journey. There is so much pain, so many unspoken emotions.
Absolutely amazing narrative. I loved this!
Na’s finishes her first year and instead of celebrating, she gets a call from home saying her brother is suddenly dead.
No one seems keen on talking about it. She has to give up school to pay for debts that her parents took for favoured brothers schooling.
She resents that her parents favoured her brother and his education over hers and now he’s committed suicide over his poor results.
Over time, she realizes she barely knew her brother in his past few years.
She finds herself engaged (sort of) and nothing seems to be going well in her life.
New secrets seem to come out and how should she face them?
Overall, a very good read and a emotional journey. There is so much pain, so many unspoken emotions.
September 1, 2020
This is the type of story that just sticks with you. The plot is seamless with strong characters. A story to savor and enjoy. Definitely worth checking out. A gem of a book. Happy reading! #LikeSpilledWater #NetGalley
December 31, 2020
My heart connected from the beginning! Na is told to come home as her brother has died. No explanation... she travels, arrives, and is just told Bao-bao is gone. So many questions, so many people to try not to hurt, so many rules. Suicide? Would her brother care that much about his scores... Baba is drinking incessantly, Mom continues to push labor positions and marriage for her daughter, and everyone who knew Bao-bao cannot believe he would take his own life.
I could not put this book down! Not only did I fume about the lack of choices for females, two children struggles in China, and the lack of choices to be YOU- but so many other things gave me feels! Na and her families’ story is a life connected to a history which is changing and hopefully quickly!
I could not put this book down! Not only did I fume about the lack of choices for females, two children struggles in China, and the lack of choices to be YOU- but so many other things gave me feels! Na and her families’ story is a life connected to a history which is changing and hopefully quickly!
February 3, 2021
Introduced me to a different culture. It was very interesting.
November 19, 2021
This book was really interesting & well developed. The setting was pretty bleak, though so watch your mental health as you read it.
July 20, 2020
Book Review: Like Spilled Water
by Jennie Liu
Pub Date 01 Sep 2020
Read courtesy of http://netgalley.com
This is a novel of regret, so it's a review filled with regrets.
I feel regret for the unlucky readers who found this book too long or too slow. It's not an action novel; it's an emotional one. It's reflective of the societal norms to not reveal one's troubles encapsulated into a story. I am grateful to have been able to enter and understand a world different from my own.
I regret that that I read other's reviews before reading the book; they gave away even more than the author did with her clues as to Bao-bao's fate. Jennie Liu hinted early that something was off about Na's brother's death, but she did so for literary movement, not to include a spoiler. I am grateful that the author skillfully cast doubt for the reader.
I regret Na's and Bao-bao's perceptions of their lost youth and their parents' perceptions of the purpose of children. I am grateful that the story ends with an ending that Na can live with.
I regret that Gilbert and Na's friendship encounters so many obstacles, but I am grateful that Na meets Min, who offers a different kind of friendship.
I regret watching Na and Bao-bao's unwavering parents live by ancient philosophies. I am grateful that I've been exposed to another culture's standards and been witness to how a culture changes between generations.
I regret not yet reading Liu's other book yet, "Girls on the Line." I am grateful that I now want to read more by this author, and I cannot wait to put this into the hands of my high school readers.
I regret that I cannot give "Like Spilled Water" 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ for literary prose, but I'm grateful that I can for an accessible, non-judgmental, multi-story line plot that makes me think outside of myself.
by Jennie Liu
Pub Date 01 Sep 2020
Read courtesy of http://netgalley.com
This is a novel of regret, so it's a review filled with regrets.
I feel regret for the unlucky readers who found this book too long or too slow. It's not an action novel; it's an emotional one. It's reflective of the societal norms to not reveal one's troubles encapsulated into a story. I am grateful to have been able to enter and understand a world different from my own.
I regret that that I read other's reviews before reading the book; they gave away even more than the author did with her clues as to Bao-bao's fate. Jennie Liu hinted early that something was off about Na's brother's death, but she did so for literary movement, not to include a spoiler. I am grateful that the author skillfully cast doubt for the reader.
I regret Na's and Bao-bao's perceptions of their lost youth and their parents' perceptions of the purpose of children. I am grateful that the story ends with an ending that Na can live with.
I regret that Gilbert and Na's friendship encounters so many obstacles, but I am grateful that Na meets Min, who offers a different kind of friendship.
I regret watching Na and Bao-bao's unwavering parents live by ancient philosophies. I am grateful that I've been exposed to another culture's standards and been witness to how a culture changes between generations.
I regret not yet reading Liu's other book yet, "Girls on the Line." I am grateful that I now want to read more by this author, and I cannot wait to put this into the hands of my high school readers.
I regret that I cannot give "Like Spilled Water" 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ for literary prose, but I'm grateful that I can for an accessible, non-judgmental, multi-story line plot that makes me think outside of myself.
September 19, 2020
I enjoyed it, though I felt it ended suddenly.
May 21, 2021
wish it was longer, but i enjoyed it!
July 18, 2022
Honestly one of the best books I've read this year. The suspense, the family drama, and its short!! I'm starting to find I enjoy some suspense and mild family drama. But truly the way we discover things was wonderfully done. I really enjoyed the conflict between tradition, doing things for your family's sake, wanting freedom, all of it was nicely handled. I liked that it didn't take a firm and hard stance on either or, but still pointed out how difficult each choice can be. I also enjoyed the conflicted emotions that Na had about her brother, very realist take.
December 19, 2020
An easy and fast read! It was a recommendation and not part of what I normally read but I enjoyed it a lot!
March 28, 2021
Read Harder Challenge 2021 - Task 14- Read a realistic YA book not set in the U.S., UK, or Canada.
March 23, 2021
This is a remarkable written fiction about the changes in China's systems for college entrance. This might be easy to fix, but the traditions of putting men above women isn't. this book shows a young woman try to break out of this tradition.
May 6, 2021
This is amazing but a hard read. Deals with really dark themes.
CW: loss of a family member, suicide, alcoholism, grief, misogyny, extreme familial pressure, homophobia, accidental manslaughter
CW: loss of a family member, suicide, alcoholism, grief, misogyny, extreme familial pressure, homophobia, accidental manslaughter
June 11, 2020
I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a digital ARC of this novel.
Actual rate: 4.50 stars
This was a very meaningful read. It's the story about a girl and her dead brother living in rural China and dealing with the standards that society imposes on young people: study more than you can, even if it not what you want to study, because your career and future depends on it, work even if your whole body and mind hurt, marry young and well so you won't be a burden to your family, do as your family says because that's what everyone must do. It is clearly presented as an issue that involves most of the Chinese lower classes but, if you look hard enough, you can easily see how these issues are also present in other countries' societies. It truly makes you realize that if you have time to read, to draw to play videogames or just do something to please yourself freely then you may have some privilege without even noticing it.
The way this book was written (prose, characters etc...) may be not the shiniest I have ever read, but it makes you feel and understand what the main character is going through so it serves its purpose well and that's what really matters.
Overall, as I said at the start of the review, this is a very meaningful read and I definitely recommend it to people who wants to discover how much society can pressure young people even to these days.
Merged review:
I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a digital ARC of this novel.
Actual rate: 4.50 stars
This was a very meaningful read. It's the story about a girl and her dead brother living in rural China and dealing with the standards that society imposes on young people: study more than you can, even if it not what you want to study, because your career and future depends on it, marry young and well so you won't be a burden to your family, do as your family says because that's what everyone must do. It is clearly presented as an issue that involves most of the Chinese lower classes but, if you look hard enough, you can easily see how these issues are also present in other countries' societies. It truly makes you realize that if you have time to read, to draw to play videogames or just do something to please yourself freely then you may have some privilege without even noticing it.
The way this book was written (prose, characters etc...) may be not the shiniest I have ever read, but it makes you feel and understand what the main character is going through so it serves its purpose well and that's what really matters.
Overall, as I said at the start of the review, this is a very meaningful read and I definitely recommend it to people who wants to discover how much society can pressure young people even to these days.
Actual rate: 4.50 stars
This was a very meaningful read. It's the story about a girl and her dead brother living in rural China and dealing with the standards that society imposes on young people: study more than you can, even if it not what you want to study, because your career and future depends on it, work even if your whole body and mind hurt, marry young and well so you won't be a burden to your family, do as your family says because that's what everyone must do. It is clearly presented as an issue that involves most of the Chinese lower classes but, if you look hard enough, you can easily see how these issues are also present in other countries' societies. It truly makes you realize that if you have time to read, to draw to play videogames or just do something to please yourself freely then you may have some privilege without even noticing it.
The way this book was written (prose, characters etc...) may be not the shiniest I have ever read, but it makes you feel and understand what the main character is going through so it serves its purpose well and that's what really matters.
Overall, as I said at the start of the review, this is a very meaningful read and I definitely recommend it to people who wants to discover how much society can pressure young people even to these days.
Merged review:
I thank NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a digital ARC of this novel.
Actual rate: 4.50 stars
This was a very meaningful read. It's the story about a girl and her dead brother living in rural China and dealing with the standards that society imposes on young people: study more than you can, even if it not what you want to study, because your career and future depends on it, marry young and well so you won't be a burden to your family, do as your family says because that's what everyone must do. It is clearly presented as an issue that involves most of the Chinese lower classes but, if you look hard enough, you can easily see how these issues are also present in other countries' societies. It truly makes you realize that if you have time to read, to draw to play videogames or just do something to please yourself freely then you may have some privilege without even noticing it.
The way this book was written (prose, characters etc...) may be not the shiniest I have ever read, but it makes you feel and understand what the main character is going through so it serves its purpose well and that's what really matters.
Overall, as I said at the start of the review, this is a very meaningful read and I definitely recommend it to people who wants to discover how much society can pressure young people even to these days.
May 9, 2022
Like Min, I was too shock to find out the truth about Baobao's death. What. In. The. Freak. World.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2020
Powerful story! I teach my students about the gaokao with an article China's Cram Schools and was excited to read this book. It provides a very realistic picture of the culture and stress placed upon China's youth. My reason for only 4 stars is because I really wanted to know how Na made out and the author did not choose to continue her path. I do understand that was not the goal.
September 21, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book about gender roles and pressure on teens in Chinese society. It reads like a mystery, although I thought there would be a bigger payoff at the end. Still, it lets you into the stressful world of the Chinese School Entrance Exams, a phenomenon that has the power to test the bonds of family.
May 20, 2020
Like Spilled Water is an honest and unflinching story about the family, tradition and discovering who you are, rather than what your family thinks you are. An absorbing and thought provoking read.
June 23, 2024
4.5 Won't be forgetting this anytime soon.
Freedom is a strange thing. Once you’ve experienced it, it remains in your heart, and no one can take it away. . - Ai Weiwei
It's outrageous more people haven't read this book. I've read a bunch of mediocre YA lately, and have been venturing back to adult, so this was a refreshing change.
Set in a polluted third-tier city, Taiyuan, and a village called Willow Tree, China, Spilled Water . explores little emperor resentment, the pressure to fulfill familial responsibilities, a daughter being "spilled water" and government propaganda to get married and have kids, dolorous living conditions, and the insidious burden of gaokao, the single most powerful determinant of a kid's future. In Korea, it's called Suneung , a brutal eight-hour marathon of multiple papers in multiple subjects on a Thursday in the third week in November. Traffic and construction considerations are enforced to ensure the students arrive at the exam on time and able to concentrate through the day.
Na was lucky that, as a girl with a brother, Bao-bao, she wasn't micromanaged and monitored throughout her youth despite being academically smart. After Bao-bao 's death, she has to surrender her education and work a mind-numbing factory job to support her parents who are in debt thanks to all the cram schools. But Bao-bao was forging his own future, with catastrophic consequences.
The urn scene. I mean, holy crap.
Jennie Liu weaves the cultural issues and societal expectations seamlessly into the narrative as Na navigates a bleak future. There's a cast of nuanced characters, from her parents and nanna to Gilbert (nicknamed after Anne of Green Gables), the steadfast Mrs Hue, the determined Min, and the gentle tattoo artist, Wei. There are also poignant parallels to Jane Eyre in regard to the quote above.
Another good one set in the Philippines is Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay which is equally tragic. I hope to find more like these that are set outside the US or UK, where romance takes a backseat.
A half-star lost because it began too abruptly and is a tad too short, but way to end with a bang, even though it's open-ended.
TW: Grief, Abandonment, Alcoholism, Death, and Homophobia
Themes: familial expectations, patriarchy, suicide, academic pressure, freedom to be yourself, poverty, classism
Freedom is a strange thing. Once you’ve experienced it, it remains in your heart, and no one can take it away. . - Ai Weiwei
It's outrageous more people haven't read this book. I've read a bunch of mediocre YA lately, and have been venturing back to adult, so this was a refreshing change.
Set in a polluted third-tier city, Taiyuan, and a village called Willow Tree, China, Spilled Water . explores little emperor resentment, the pressure to fulfill familial responsibilities, a daughter being "spilled water" and government propaganda to get married and have kids, dolorous living conditions, and the insidious burden of gaokao, the single most powerful determinant of a kid's future. In Korea, it's called Suneung , a brutal eight-hour marathon of multiple papers in multiple subjects on a Thursday in the third week in November. Traffic and construction considerations are enforced to ensure the students arrive at the exam on time and able to concentrate through the day.
Na was lucky that, as a girl with a brother, Bao-bao, she wasn't micromanaged and monitored throughout her youth despite being academically smart. After Bao-bao 's death, she has to surrender her education and work a mind-numbing factory job to support her parents who are in debt thanks to all the cram schools. But Bao-bao was forging his own future, with catastrophic consequences.
The urn scene. I mean, holy crap.
Jennie Liu weaves the cultural issues and societal expectations seamlessly into the narrative as Na navigates a bleak future. There's a cast of nuanced characters, from her parents and nanna to Gilbert (nicknamed after Anne of Green Gables), the steadfast Mrs Hue, the determined Min, and the gentle tattoo artist, Wei. There are also poignant parallels to Jane Eyre in regard to the quote above.
Another good one set in the Philippines is Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay which is equally tragic. I hope to find more like these that are set outside the US or UK, where romance takes a backseat.
A half-star lost because it began too abruptly and is a tad too short, but way to end with a bang, even though it's open-ended.
TW: Grief, Abandonment, Alcoholism, Death, and Homophobia
Themes: familial expectations, patriarchy, suicide, academic pressure, freedom to be yourself, poverty, classism
November 15, 2023
Love is for teenagers, marriage is practical.
Na is a 19 year old growing up in China. She is the first born; however, as a girl, her family has put all of their attention, resources, and hopes into her younger brother. But one day an urgent phone call from her grandmother completely flips her world upside down. She is thrust back into the world that has told her for years that she doesn't matter as much, and her presence, her curiosity, is going to lead her to family secrets that others wish would stay buried.
I have such mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it is a book that shines such a spotlight on family expectations, gender roles, and pressures placed on youths across China. Given that many of my students in Thailand are Chinese (or Asian in general), there are immediate opportunities for connection. I wonder what their relationship is to the gaokao--China's infamous standardized test that determines all university-bound students' futures.
On the other hand, I don't know how I feel about the LGBTQ+ representation in this book. It is a harsh reality that obviously impacts many--made very clear in the author's note--but it does paint gay individuals as selfish, fearful, and ashamed. Yes, those feelings exist within the queer community, and maybe more so in China, but this could be a book that labels a community in one, unflattering way. I would be interested to learn more about how Jennie Liu crafted this book and how it landed for other LGBTQ+ readers. Recommended for GR 8 and up.
Na is a 19 year old growing up in China. She is the first born; however, as a girl, her family has put all of their attention, resources, and hopes into her younger brother. But one day an urgent phone call from her grandmother completely flips her world upside down. She is thrust back into the world that has told her for years that she doesn't matter as much, and her presence, her curiosity, is going to lead her to family secrets that others wish would stay buried.
I have such mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it is a book that shines such a spotlight on family expectations, gender roles, and pressures placed on youths across China. Given that many of my students in Thailand are Chinese (or Asian in general), there are immediate opportunities for connection. I wonder what their relationship is to the gaokao--China's infamous standardized test that determines all university-bound students' futures.
On the other hand, I don't know how I feel about the LGBTQ+ representation in this book. It is a harsh reality that obviously impacts many--made very clear in the author's note--but it does paint gay individuals as selfish, fearful, and ashamed. Yes, those feelings exist within the queer community, and maybe more so in China, but this could be a book that labels a community in one, unflattering way. I would be interested to learn more about how Jennie Liu crafted this book and how it landed for other LGBTQ+ readers. Recommended for GR 8 and up.
March 13, 2023
This book was kinda bad, I had this expectation that it was going to be this girl trying to save her family from falling into debt while trying to figure out her brothers murder, but that was not it at all. The biggest thing I didn't like was that she tried super hard to be the "good daughter" then decided not to be, there was a big thing that happened before that though but it was the way there really wasn't any thought process and the thing was she wasn't going to see them anymore, but then at the end she kind of started talking to her mom again soooo. One thing I did like was that it showed how the one child policy worked and how parents would leave their kids with the grandparents while they went to the city to work and provide money, plus it gave insight to Chinese culture that I didn't know about
April 20, 2023
Wow, this quick read had a lot of grit to it. The story of Na and her brother Bao-Bao is a complex and uncertain relationship. The dualities of her reality and his contain stark differences, and yet both siblings are yearning for the acceptance and love of their parents. I researched the term of the books title, “like spilled water,” and I think in the USA it seems we use “not worth crying over spilled milk.” However, characterizing an entire feminine generation with this sentiment gives context to the gravity of grief that those three words may carry culturally.
Throughout this story, Na has my heart, my hope, and my prayers that choosing to believe in yourself is always a worthwhile investment.
Throughout this story, Na has my heart, my hope, and my prayers that choosing to believe in yourself is always a worthwhile investment.
June 28, 2020
I have high expectation on thisbon because of the synopsis. I can tell the synopsis is hooking everyone but nah... I felt betrayed.
The plot is quite slow, even though the main problem is introduce in the first page. Bao Bao's death and her parents grief and stuff. But the thing is, the story didn't tell about Bao Bao ( which I expect so much ) but it is more focused on Na and her parents. How they are not doing so well after losing their beloved son and the father getting a bit insane. Well, that just showing too much. I want to know more about Bao Bao, how's he is like, what happened to him before, what had he been through. But I didn't get it.
The storyline is just too plain. It's all about Na helping her parents to live a better life. Which I see that not a big deal, and how Na wants to learn more about her brother and didn't make much effort on it, and that's that. Honestly, I don't see any clear conflict that excites me to turn the page. I just read through and hoping for anything unique to happen.
Well at least, I learned how Asian parents really want their children to succeed in the academic really really much. So much pressure and that can lead to serious mental illness. That's the reality.
Rating : 2/5 🌟
Merged review:
I have high expectation on thisbon because of the synopsis. I can tell the synopsis is hooking everyone but nah... I felt betrayed.
The plot is quite slow, even though the main problem is introduce in the first page. Bao Bao's death and her parents grief and stuff. But the thing is, the story didn't tell about Bao Bao ( which I expect so much ) but it is more focused on Na and her parents. How they are not doing so well after losing their beloved son and the father getting a bit insane. Well, that just showing too much. I want to know more about Bao Bao, how's he is like, what happened to him before, what had he been through. But I didn't get it.
The storyline is just too plain. It's all about Na helping her parents to live a better life. Which I see that not a big deal, and how Na wants to learn more about her brother and didn't make much effort on it, and that's that. Honestly, I don't see any clear conflict that excites me to turn the page. I just read through and hoping for anything unique to happen.
Well at least, I learned how Asian parents really want their children to succeed in the academic really really much. So much pressure and that can lead to serious mental illness. That's the reality.
The plot is quite slow, even though the main problem is introduce in the first page. Bao Bao's death and her parents grief and stuff. But the thing is, the story didn't tell about Bao Bao ( which I expect so much ) but it is more focused on Na and her parents. How they are not doing so well after losing their beloved son and the father getting a bit insane. Well, that just showing too much. I want to know more about Bao Bao, how's he is like, what happened to him before, what had he been through. But I didn't get it.
The storyline is just too plain. It's all about Na helping her parents to live a better life. Which I see that not a big deal, and how Na wants to learn more about her brother and didn't make much effort on it, and that's that. Honestly, I don't see any clear conflict that excites me to turn the page. I just read through and hoping for anything unique to happen.
Well at least, I learned how Asian parents really want their children to succeed in the academic really really much. So much pressure and that can lead to serious mental illness. That's the reality.
Rating : 2/5 🌟
Merged review:
I have high expectation on thisbon because of the synopsis. I can tell the synopsis is hooking everyone but nah... I felt betrayed.
The plot is quite slow, even though the main problem is introduce in the first page. Bao Bao's death and her parents grief and stuff. But the thing is, the story didn't tell about Bao Bao ( which I expect so much ) but it is more focused on Na and her parents. How they are not doing so well after losing their beloved son and the father getting a bit insane. Well, that just showing too much. I want to know more about Bao Bao, how's he is like, what happened to him before, what had he been through. But I didn't get it.
The storyline is just too plain. It's all about Na helping her parents to live a better life. Which I see that not a big deal, and how Na wants to learn more about her brother and didn't make much effort on it, and that's that. Honestly, I don't see any clear conflict that excites me to turn the page. I just read through and hoping for anything unique to happen.
Well at least, I learned how Asian parents really want their children to succeed in the academic really really much. So much pressure and that can lead to serious mental illness. That's the reality.
May 13, 2021
I learned a lot and felt deeply reading this book. With a little over 200 pages, this novel is a dense gem of facts, plot and characters that is well-paced and cleverly plotted to reveal struggles personal and cultural in the world of the story. Tight, straightforward prose delivered the desperation and realities of the characters in a way that is moving without being maudlin or over dramatic. A clean, thought-provoking and moving novel. A no-frills novel that is nonetheless deeply affecting. I look forward to picking up her first novel.
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