Mary Elaine L. (Laney) reviewed on 1/8/2007 + 911 more book reviews

In this historical novel set in the 1930s, Lord follows the House of Chang, a dynasty of scholars and landowners, from the end of the Manchu Empire, through two Sino-Japanese wars, and the Communist takeover. As China changes, the members of the House of Chang must question their previously traditional roles; as the society based on family and patriarchy crumbles, the Chinese wedded to their traditions must cope with the needs of the masses over those of the individual, the education of women, and the authority of the state over all. The plot centers on Spring Moon, a woman pampered by the Chang dynasty, and Lustrous Jade, her daughter, educated by Western missionaries and who wholeheartedly espouses Communism.

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