Katherine

Rating:
Summary: Stark Realism
Review: This book captures the Chinese view of weterners. It is one of the few books that I have started and finished in one sitting. Its prose captures the rhythms and thought patterns that are so prevalent in Chinese culture (the intricate interpersonal politics of love in modern China). I have known characters that could have acted as stand ins for ALL of the characters in the book. Although it is a sad story, it is one that is painfully close to reality and anyone who has lived for many years in China could easily mistake the book for non-fiction.

This book is a fascinating look into the heart and soul of a/some/many Chinese women.

Rating:
Summary: True friendship
Review: This is a riveting story of how two women overcome cultural differences to build a true friendship. Although Zebra and Katherine were from two different worlds, in the end they found that they had much in common- as Katherine herself said, "I am an American, but I'm a human being first." This novel reads like an autobiography- although I know it is not, I hope it is "true," since although I have traveled extensively, I have never been to China, and I am counting on it as an accurate source about understanding Chinese culture and people.

Rating:
Summary: True friendship
Review: This is a riveting story of how two women overcome cultural differences to build a true friendship. Although Zebra and Katherine were from two different worlds, in the end they found that they had much in common- as Katherine herself said, "I am an American, but I'm a human being first." This novel reads like an autobiography- although I know it is not, I hope it is "true," since although I have traveled extensively, I have never been to China, and I am counting on it as an accurate source about understanding Chinese culture and people.

Rating:
Summary: Remarkable account of a walk on the wild side in China
Review: This is an enjoyable account of a clash of cultures and a discovery of (gay) sexuality. It's setting in China and lesbian theme reminded me of another book I read lately, "White Snake and Other Stories" by Geling Yan, who is of the same generation as this author. This is another place where China is starting to exit the closet, much to its own surprise.

Rating:
Summary: A teacher brings a new way of thinking to her students.
Review: This little gem of a book kept me up awake until I finished every word. It is the story of the impact that an American teacher, Katherine, makes on a class of students in the 1980s, after the death of Mao and during a time of change. The teacher brings new ways of thinking to her students. And danger.

The language is simple, evocative and clear. The voice is fresh. Simple sentences opened worlds of understanding for me. The main character, Zebra, is in her late twenties. She is confused with the changes around her. She was brought up to worship communism and Chairman Mao, was sent to a labor camp as a teenager, now works in a factory and lives in an overcrowded apartment with her parents and brother. Life is harsh for her and those around her. And then the American teacher, with her western ways comes into their life.

Concepts such as travel, choice, moving from place to place are introduced. The students learn to talk about how they feel about things, which is something that Chinese people just don't do. There's a intertwining love story including obsession and deception. And all of this is under the watchful eyes of the government, who control every aspect of Chinese life and signs of individualism are looked at with suspicion.

We, Americans, walk around with our eyes closed too. We can't quite understand what we're dealing with in China. I've read articles about this. But through this simple novel of a sparse 254 pages, I began to understand.

Rating:
Summary: "Katherine" A history book and life lesson in one.
Review: We feel Katherine, a novel written by Anchee Min, is a book which everyone should read. It's everything from a history to a life's lesson and from tearjerkers to a wake up call. It brings a sense of patriotism and makes one feel as if their life really isn't bad. Though Katherine took place in China in the early 80's, many of the issues in this novel still pertain to student's lives today in America. Zebra Wong, one of the main characters in this novel, is battling throughout the novel to find herself. She's trying to be something that she really isn't, while trying to make a positive impression on Katherine, her American teacher and influence. Love, is another issue in which Zebra Wong comes face to face within this novel. Zebra is trying to find her one true love and is confused as to who it should be, or if it should even be a male. She is battling to find happiness and once again, impress everyone else. Who really wants to be the one without anyone? Zebra doesn't. Today in America, many students encounter the same battles. In fact, there may be many psychologists that feel that people battle these issues their whole lives. Everyone is trying to find their one true love and often, try to be something their not. People always try to impress one another, especially in the novel, _Katherine_. Zebra tries to impress Katherine in many ways. Throughout the novel, Zebra gives Katherine earrings and helped her adopt a child Katherine always wanted. After reading this novel, a person can get a clearer view, as to who and what Mao Zedong was. You can get a feel as to why the Chinese are the way they are and all of the horrible experiences they had to encounter. This novel gives an understanding as to why the Chinese actually worshiped Mao, even though he put them through hell. This is something you can't learn in a history book. Zebra is a lesson in life and a book that really keeps you on the edge of your seat. It really gets you thinking and makes you realize that YOU aren't the only one that has certain problems. It's a wonderful book that we feel every person should read and enjoy!

Rating:
Summary: the story of Zebra Wong
Review: Would you be willing to devote eight years of work in a labor camp for mere political recognition? Faced with this question, the average Jane Doe or American would answer no. However, Zebra Wong jumped at the opportunity. We can assume that Zebra is no Jane Doe neither is she American. In fact, Zebra Wong is the absolute opposite. Under influence of the Communist Party, Zebra Wong and her family sacrificed their lives to glorify their "god," Mao Zedong. Years later, Mao's plans for China had failed. The people of China asked themselves why, when they had worked so hard, were suddenly so miserable? Zebra lost her faith in Mao and decided to end her work. Unfortunately, Zebra was not permitted to leave the labor camp. Can you imagine "slaving" for eight years against your own will? For Zebra, she dreaded every moment. "My education from age seven to eighteen was spent learning to be an honest Communist." Not up till the age of twenty-nine did Zebra enroll in a special English program. At school, an American teaches English to Zebra and her Chinese classmates. Her name is Katherine. "Like an evening star, she appeared quietly in our lives, in complete harmony, and before we realized it, she was installed above our heads" is how author Anchee Min described Katherine. Her existence was overwhelming, bringing 'a story of the western world' with her. In return, Zebra and her classmates exchange their tales with Katherine. Katherine became Zebra's confidant. Through time, Zebra learned to repress her past. A friendship begins; Zebra discovers a world of acceptance despite the unexpected consequences and misfortunes.