A review by mr_sosotris
The Bonesetter's Daughter, by Amy Tan
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
What a gorgeous story. I’ve loved every Amy Tan novel I’ve read, and this one is no exception. It’s heart-warming, tragic, and very very human.
The exploration of the difficult relationship between child and mother is so well-written, and I appreciate how the story never falls into absolutes or simple tropes. The specific combination of personalities that shape this central relationship is incredibly relatable and difficult. The two plot threads wove together well, the various overarching symbols and themes stitching the past and present together in a cohesive manner.
I did find the ending a bit too neat and tidy. It was a satisfying continuation of the previous plot threads, but perhaps I am such a cynic that I was expecting a messier, more real-life conclusion. But that’s very much a ME problem.
Overall, this book is gorgeously written, and the characters really stand out as memorable and complex. I related VERY STRONGLY with Ruth, and her journey was just so captivating.
This is definitely one I want to read again.
The exploration of the difficult relationship between child and mother is so well-written, and I appreciate how the story never falls into absolutes or simple tropes. The specific combination of personalities that shape this central relationship is incredibly relatable and difficult. The two plot threads wove together well, the various overarching symbols and themes stitching the past and present together in a cohesive manner.
I did find the ending a bit too neat and tidy. It was a satisfying continuation of the previous plot threads, but perhaps I am such a cynic that I was expecting a messier, more real-life conclusion. But that’s very much a ME problem.
Overall, this book is gorgeously written, and the characters really stand out as memorable and complex. I related VERY STRONGLY with Ruth, and her journey was just so captivating.
This is definitely one I want to read again.