The latest historical novel from New York Times bestselling author Lisa See, inspired by the true story of a woman physician from 15th-century China - perfect for fans of See's classic Snowflower and the Secret Fan and The Island of Sea Women.
According to Confucius, "an educated woman is a worthless woman," but Tan Yunxian—born into an elite family, yet haunted by death, separations, and loneliness—is being raised by her grandparents to be of use. Her grandmother is one of only a handful of female doctors in China, and she teaches Yunxian the pillars of Chinese medicine, the Four Examinations—looking, listening, touching, and asking—something a man can never do with a female patient.
From a young age, Yunxian learns about women's illnesses, many of which relate to childbearing, alongside a young midwife-in-training, Meiling. The two girls find fast friendship and a mutual purpose—despite the prohibition that a doctor should never touch blood while a midwife comes in frequent contact with it—and they vow to be forever friends, sharing in each other's joys and struggles. No mud, no lotus, they tell themselves: from adversity beauty can bloom.
But when Yunxian is sent into an arranged marriage, her mother-in-law forbids her from seeing Meiling and from helping the women and girls in the household. Yunxian is to act like a proper wife—embroider bound-foot slippers, pluck instruments, recite poetry, give birth to sons, and stay forever within the walls of the family compound, the Garden of Fragrant Delights.
How might a woman like Yunxian break free of these traditions, go on to treat women and girls from every level of society, and lead a life of such importance that many of her remedies are still used five centuries later? How might the power of friendship support or complicate these efforts? Lady Tan's Circle of Women is a captivating story of women helping other women. It is also a triumphant reimagining of the life of a woman who was remarkable in the Ming dynasty and would be considered remarkable today.
Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!
The opening of this novel begins with a preface which includes the line "My cousin has excelled at treating women because she has shared in the losses and joys of what it means to be a female on this earth." How does this set up the novel and what is to come for Yunxian? After reading the novel, what does it mean to be a "female on this earth?"
How does the death of Respectful Lady shape Yunxian? What lessons from Respectful Lady does Yunxian carry with her? When Respectful Lady is near her end, she mutters: "To live is to suffer." How is this a warning for Yunxian early in the novel?
Grandfather Tan and Grandmother Ru have very different ideas about childbirth. Who do you agree with, and why? Although 500 years have passed since the ...
Please be aware that this discussion may contain spoilers!
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Book club book ideas for members reading english as a foreign language
@ Alison_Pask Has your group read any of Lisa See's books, like Lady Tan's Circle of Women (based in China) or The Island of Sea Women (based in Korea)? The books are about 350 pages, historical fiction but again the wording is straightforward. Also, if your bookclub is primarily female, there co...
-Gabi_J
Katie Couric MediaLady Tan's Circle of Women has everything you could want in a dramatic tale of female friendship.
Washington Post
Despite the inordinate limits placed on women, See allows their strengths to dominate their stories
Booklist (starred review)
Based on the writings of an historical Ming dynasty female physician, See's accomplished novel immerses readers in a fascinating life lived within a fascinating culture.
Kirkus Reviews
Although the book's pace can sometimes slow, it's packed with historical detail...Women's friendships in a world where they have little freedom shape a quietly moving book
Publisher's Weekly
Though the pacing can feel slow and the outcome a tad predictable, See adds intrigue with a side plot involving a mysterious death, along with notable depictions of footbinding and the intricacies of Chinese medicine. See's fans will find much to enjoy.
Reader Reviews
kammie sue brunswick a treat for all fans Ms. See has provided us another treat for the readers in regards to Asian culture. The details and the characters are very real and the reader feels the sorrows and joys. The book in the words of the japanese , "minu ga hana". English ... Read Morefrances k turner excellent book for book club. I read and listened to the audio book; enjoyed. Looking for questions and answers for bookclub discussion.
Redheadedsusie Susie Female power in the midst of Extreme Patriarcy The book is about Yun’s life in Imperial China, a time where feet binding, child marriage, and servitude are the norm. Yun is lucky enough to have a feminist grandmother who teaches her the honorable role of treating women. The book covers the ... Read MoreJanet M. Super Read Lisa See does not disappoint. She takes us back in time when it was Imperial China. The historical accuracy of life then is amazing. I was suprised to learn about women doctors and midwifes and the role they played even in upper class homes. I so ... Read More
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